Financial Aid

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How can I speak with a staff member about my financial aid?
   A. The staff of the financial aid office remain accessible through email and phone (413-542-2296), as well as in-person. We look forward to receiving your questions and speaking with you.
   
   
2. How do I view my financial aid information?
   A. Your secure Financial Aid Portal can be quickly accessed at www.amherst.edu/go/faportal, using your Amherst username and password. You can review the status of your financial aid application (“Documents & Messages” link) and award ( “Awards” link). If you have any problems accessing your Financial Aid Portal or have questions, please email us at finaid@amherst.edu.
   
   
3. When can I expect to receive the details of my financial aid if I have not already?
   A. Renewal financial aid details for current students will be available on the Financial Aid Portal starting in mid-June. Files are reviewed as they become complete, starting with those that completed prior to the March 1 due date. Our approach is comprehensive and detail-oriented. We will send an email to the student as soon as the details are available to be viewed on the Financial Aid Portal.
   
   
4. How does student employment work at Amherst?
   A.  Student employment at Amherst College is open to all students, regardless of financial aid eligibility. Approximately two-thirds of all students work on campus at some time during the academic year. Students are responsible for finding their own jobs by viewing postings online (after you have matriculated at Amherst). Students must be prepared to present original documentation of citizenship and identity in person at the Office of Financial Aid for employment to be authorized. Students should bring necessary documents to campus.
   
   
5. How do I submit documentation for my financial aid file?
   A. After you submit your CSS Profile, you will be able to upload documentation via IDOC. International applicants should use the financial aid portal to upload income and tax documents, if applicable. More information for International students can be found at https://www.amherst.edu/offices/financialaid/international_students. 
   
   
6. My portal indicates that I am missing a student W-2 but I submitted a W-2 Substitute.
   A. If you listed wages on your aid application, we will need a copy of the 2020 W-2 issued to you by your employer. If you did not receive a W-2, please provide an explanation (paid in cash, etc.) via email at finaid@amherst.edu.
   
   
7. How do I apply for financial aid at Amherst College?
   A. Detailed instructions on applying for financial aid can be found on our webpage located at: https://www.amherst.edu/offices/financialaid/firstyear_transfer. Please choose the appropriate link on the left hand side of the page for more information.
   
   
8. How can I make corrections to my CSS Profile?
   A. We understand that the numbers on the Profile may be estimates; we will update them with your actual tax forms that you submit to our office. If you have major changes or corrections that are not found on your tax returns, you can update your application once by clicking “Correct Your CSS Profile” on your College Board Profile Dashboard.
   
   
9. What options exist to request reconsideration of the financial aid offered?
   A. You may ask us to review your financial aid award and the way we calculated your family contribution.  Appeals must be submitted in writing and include information not included in your initial aid application. The letter (or financial aid appeal form) should address changes in circumstances, unusual expenses, special situations, or additional information not already presented in the financial aid application. The Financial Aid Appeal form is available in the “Forms and Helpful Links” section of the Office of Financial Aid website.
   
   
10. What options exist to request reconsideration for financial changes occurring in 2022?
    A. If your family’s financial situation has been impacted by Covid-19, you can request a review in January 2023 to provide a more complete picture of your 2022 finances. Your award is currently based on family income for 2020.

The Office of Financial Aid is open in B-5 Converse Hall. Please feel free to be in touch with us by:

> Stopping in the office and saying hello,
> Phone at 413-542-2296 where a staff member will answer your call during business hours,
> Email us and we will reply to you as soon as possible,
> Current students can schedule an appointment to speak with a dean,

We are excited to see you and to assist you with your financial aid needs and questions.