This fall, CSN is rolling out a new approach to financial aid disbursement, and we want to make sure our faculty and staff are informed so we can guide students with confidence.

Under the new process, students who have completed their 2025-26 FAFSA and financial aid To Do List will receive their aid after classes begin — not earlier. This change is designed to ensure aid is awarded to active, participating students and prevent overpayments.

To help students prepare, CSN is launching a four-phase campaign titled “Know Before You Go: Financial Aid Fall 2025.” The campaign includes graphics, FAQs messages timed throughout the semester to address common questions and concerns.

Here are the key updates:

1. Bookstore vouchers are back
Students with completed aid packages (aid showing as “pending” in MyCSN) may qualify for early bookstore vouchers to purchase textbooks before classes begin. These vouchers are meant to bridge the gap while they wait for their aid to disburse.

2. Aug. 4 is the payment deadline
Students who do not have pending aid or an approved payment plan by Aug. 4 risk being dropped from their classes. It’s essential they check MyCSN and act now.

3. No aid until participation is confirmed
Even students with aid marked as “pending” won’t see refunds or full disbursement until they actively participate in class. This could delay applicable credit balance refunds but reinforces accountability and fairness in the process.

4. Sept. 10 is the official disbursement date
If a student’s file is incomplete by this date, their aid will not be disbursed. Faculty should encourage students to complete any outstanding requirements as soon as possible.

Faculty and staff are encouraged to attend an upcoming virtual info session on Tuesday, July 22, from 10 to 11 a.m. to learn more about the policy changes and how best to support students.

Let’s make sure every student feels supported, informed, and ready to succeed this fall. For full campaign details, visit the CSN Financial Aid website.