## Guidelines for Document Formats When preparing documents for upload, ensure they meet the university's formatting requirements to avoid processing delays: * Save files in widely accepted formats, such as PDF or JPEG. * Ensure all text, signatures, and numbers are clear and legible. * Keep file sizes within the maximum limits specified by the portal. * Double-check that your student identification number is clearly visible on every page of the document. ## Alternative Submission Methods
If you are unable to use the online portal, the UW Madison Office of Student Financial Aid typically accepts documents through alternative channels. * **Postal Mail:** You can mail physical copies of your documents to the financial aid office. Because mailing addresses and department codes can change, always retrieve the current mailing address directly from the contact section of the official UW Madison financial aid website. * **In-Person Delivery:** Students currently on campus can drop off documents directly at the financial aid office during standard business hours. *Note: Due to security risks associated with transmitting sensitive personal information, avoid sending documents containing Social Security Numbers, tax returns, or bank details via standard email.* ## What to Do If You Encounter Technical Issues
If you experience issues while attempting to upload documents through the portal, try the following troubleshooting steps: * Clear your browser's cache and cookies, or try using a different web browser. * Ensure your document files are not password-protected or encrypted, as the portal may reject these files. * Verify that your internet connection is stable and that you are not using a restricted network that blocks secure uploads. * If the portal remains inaccessible, contact the university's information technology support desk or the financial aid office directly for assistance. Do not attempt to bypass security protocols by emailing sensitive documents. ## Verifying Receipt of Your Documents After submitting your paperwork, it is important to confirm that the financial aid office has received it.
Log back into your student portal periodically to check the status of your financial aid checklist. Allow several business days for the system to update, especially during peak processing seasons before the start of a semester. If a document status remains marked as missing after a reasonable timeframe, contact the Office of Student Financial Aid directly through the verified phone number or email address listed on their official website.
