Student Aid Report (SAR)
What Is a Student Aid Report?
A Student Aid Report (SAR) is a document summarizing the information submitted on the FAFSA and displaying the calculated Student Aid Index (SAI). The SAR confirms that the FAFSA application has been processed.
Students should review the SAR carefully to ensure that all financial information is accurate.
Why It Matters
The Student Aid Report helps students verify the information used to determine financial aid eligibility. Errors in the FAFSA could affect the amount of financial aid a student receives.
Reviewing the SAR allows students to correct mistakes before colleges finalize financial aid decisions.
How the Student Aid Report Works
After the FAFSA is processed, the Department of Education generates the Student Aid Report.
The report includes:
- FAFSA application data
- Student Aid Index (SAI)
- eligibility indicators for federal aid
Students can access their SAR through their FAFSA account and may update their information if needed.
Example
After submitting her FAFSA, Lily receives her Student Aid Report online. She notices that her household size was entered incorrectly, so she updates the information on the FAFSA website to ensure her financial aid eligibility is calculated correctly.
Student Aid Report vs Financial Aid Offer
- The Student Aid Report summarizes FAFSA information.
- A financial aid offer is sent by colleges outlining specific grants, scholarships, and loans available to the student.
FAQs About Student Aid Reports
How soon do students receive the SAR?
Usually within a few days after submitting the FAFSA.
What should students do if information is incorrect?
They should update and resubmit the FAFSA.
Do colleges see the SAR?
Colleges receive FAFSA information used to determine aid eligibility.
Related Terms
