Prospective Freshman Checklist
Financial Aid Checklist for 2026–2027
This step-by-step checklist will help you and your family navigate the financial aid application process with confidence.
All 2026–2027 forms use 2024 tax information.
Initial Application Steps
- Review financial aid application information.
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Complete the 2026–2027 FAFSA for federal aid consideration (grants, work-study, and student loans):
Tulane Federal School Code: 002029 -
Complete the 2026–2027 CSS Profile for Tulane need-based scholarship consideration:
Tulane CSS School Code: 6832 - Check your Gibson Portal To Do List and upload requested documents through Tulane’s secure forms portal.
If requested, signed copies of parents’ 2024 federal tax return (with all schedules), all business returns, and all 2024 W-2 forms should be uploaded directly to Tulane’s secure portal or email PDF documents to FADOCS@tulane.edu
You may submit your financial aid applications before you are admitted; however, they will not be reviewed until your admission has been confirmed. Our financial aid counseling team may request additional documents or information during the review process.
After You Have Been Admitted or if You Are a Returning Student
You will receive your Gibson Online login and password at the email address you provided on your application. Be sure to check your Gibson portal regularly for updates and required actions.
- Check Your “To Do” List: Log in to your Gibson Portal and review any outstanding requirements. Upload all requested documents securely at Tulane's secure portal.
- Monitor Your Application Status: Track your financial aid status through your Gibson Portal. Once your file has been reviewed, you will receive an email at your Tulane email address directing you to view your financial aid award online.
Steps If You Plan to Borrow Student Loans
- Accept your aid in Gibson: Log in to your Gibson portal to accept the Terms & Conditions, then accept, reduce, or decline your offered loans.
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Complete first-time borrower requirements (if applicable):
- Master Promissory Note (MPN)
- Entrance Counseling
- Your federal loans will not be disbursed until both the MPN and Entrance Counseling are complete.
- Private (non-federal) Loan Option: Review Tulane’s Private/Alternative Loan information for lender suggestions. Feel free to choose any lender that best fits your needs.
Final Steps
- Continue checking Gibson for additional To Do items.
- Find your Tulane financial aid counselor for help with questions throughout the process:
- If your aid will create a credit balance, set up direct deposit in the Billing tab of Gibson Online and review Accounts Receivable refund information:
If you have financial aid questions, we’re here to help!
Email (inquiries only): finaid@tulane.edu
PDF document submission email: FADOCS@tulane.edu
Phone: 504-865-5723 | 800-335-3210
Website: https://financialaid.tulane.edu