Financial Aid Checklist
Steps for Student Success
1. Organize your documents.
Create an expandable college folder where you can store all of your printed information, applications and forms for future reference.
2. Create your FSA ID
Obtain your Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID) username and password.
Don’t wait! New users should create an FSA ID as soon as possible as it can take 2-3 days to autheticate before use.
3. Complete the FAFSA
The application will be available by Dec. 1, 2024. (Students should submit before June 1, 2025 to avoid delays, late fees and dropped classes.)
The 2025-26 FAFSA is available starting Dec. 2024. Complete each year as soon as possible!
4. Apply to BHC
Are you a new student or returning after a two-year absence? Application to the college is required.
5. Access myBHC
After receiving your acceptance email, log in to myBHC to access your BHC email. This is how the Financial Aid Office will communicate important information! First-time students must setup their account before proceeding.
6. Apply for Scholarships
Apply for BHC scholarships March 15-May 31.
7. Monitor your myBHC email
The first 2025-26 financial aid email notifications will be sent in April 2025.
- Did your financial aid email ask you to complete additional requirements? Complete them before July 1 to avoid delays and dropped classes for the fall semester.
- Did your financial aid email confirm your eligibility? Don’t forget to review the information and resources included in the email notification – it’s important, too!
8. Confirm your Financial Aid is Ready
Review your charges and financial aid for term on myBHC under My Financial Aid. Allow 24 hours after registration for updates.
Have a balance due?
Make a payment.
Need a student loan?
Apply before July 1.
Expecting a financial aid refund?
Select a refund method.
Need books and supplies?
Use leftover financial aid at either BHC bookstore each semester.
Creating an FSA ID
Create a Federal Student Aid ID
Keep track of your login
Your FSA ID and password act as your legal, electronic signature – you will use it every year to apply. It’s strongly recommended that you remember or record your FSA ID in a safe place. This includes:
- FSA ID
- Username
- Password
- Cell phone
- Challenge questions
Download a copy of the Financial Aid Checklist 2025-26 (PDF) for a printable copy of these instructions and a form to record your data on.
Do NOT share your FSA ID with others.
Parent/Contributor FSA ID
All FAFSA contributors must have their own FSA ID and password using a different phone number and email address.
Problems creating or using your FSA ID?
Contact the Financial Aid Office or call 800-4-FED-AID (800-433-3243).
This page was last updated:
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Contact
Quad-Cities Campus
Building 1, Room 227
309-796-5400
309-796-5447 (fax)
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
East Campus
Building A, Room 102
309-854-1710
309-796-5447 (fax)
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. and 2 – 5 p.m.