Receiving Financial Aid

Disbursements are made before the start of each semester and can be accessed at Connect Carolina. Be sure to note that the disbursement schedule does not perfectly match the curriculum schedule. Make sure you are registered in ConnectCarolina and clear holds on your account, as they could cause delays in your disbursement.

Connect Carolina Student Center is where you will go to view your financial aid details. Follow the instructions below to view your financial aid offer and complete the financial aid process.

How to View and Accept Your Financial Aid in Connect Carolina

Step 1: Log on to Connect Carolina Student Center with your active ONYEN and password.

Step 2: Reduce or Decline Your Award.

You are encouraged to do a budget and make adjustments to your award to avoid borrowing too much.

Step 3: Complete the “Financial Aid To Do List”.
The steps listed in this list must be completed before you can receive your financial aid. Be sure to always complete forms and applications through Connect Carolina, so that your to do list stays intact and accurate.

Step 4: Accept Your Stafford Loans.
Follow the directions listed in Connect Carolina for accepting your Stafford Loans.

Step 5: Complete Entrance Loan Counseling Session and Direct Loans Promissory Note.
You must complete both entrance counseling and a Master Promissory Note before you can receive your financial aid. Even if you have borrowed loans in previous years, you are considered a first time borrower with Direct Loans; therefore, you must complete the Entrance Loan Counseling Session and Master Promissory Note.

Visit https://studentaid.gov/mpn to complete your counseling session and the Master Promissory Note.

You will need your four-digit PIN to log in. This is the same number you used when you completed your FAFSA.

Connect Carolina Billing

Billing information is located in ConnectCarolina. Paper bills are longer available. If you have third party billing, visit the cashier@unc.edu. Failure to pay or defer the bill by the due date may result in registration cancellation and/or holds.

Click here for more information about ConnectCarolina E-Billing.

Special Situations

If you are enrolled in courses other than the standard curriculum, your aid offer may need to be adjusted.