Student Financial Aid Platform Update
Overview
UNLV is transitioning to a modern, cloud-based financial aid platform designed to simplify the financial aid process and empower students to manage their funding with confidence.
The new Oracle Student Financial Aid (SFA) system replaces manual steps with automated workflows, improving accuracy and compliance. For students, this means a faster, more transparent, and student-centered experience. This initiative supports the objectives of the UNLV Top Tier 2.0 strategic plan by improving student outcomes, supporting underserved populations, and increasing overall student satisfaction.
Project Timeline
| Phase | Feature Set | Target Date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 & 2 | Student Financial Information (FAFSA) & Verification: Processing of financial data and verification workflows. | -- | Completed |
| 3 | First Year Aid Packaging: Generating automated offers for incoming first-year students. | December 2025 | In progress |
| 4 | Continuing Student Packaging: Generating offers for returning students. | Spring 2026 | Scheduled |
| 5 | Loans: Loan processing and originations. | Spring 2026 | Scheduled |
| 6 | Disbursements: Releasing funds to student accounts. | Spring 2026 | Scheduled |
| 7 | New Aid Year: Configuration for the next cycle, including Satisfactory Academic Progress and Return to Title IV aid processes. | Fall 2026 | Scheduled |
Note: Timelines are subject to change. Please check this page regularly for the latest updates.
Why We Are Upgrading
We are adopting the Oracle Student Cloud to enhance our capabilities without disrupting our core student information systems. This update provides a cloud-based infrastructure that allows UNLV to stay current with federal regulations and technological advances.
Benefits & Outcomes
For First-Year Students:
- Clearer Costs: Real-time visibility into multi-year aid and projected costs.
- Guided Decisions: Smart tools help students understand their financial aid and loan options so they can make informed decisions from the start.
- Easy-to-Follow Processes: Simple, clear processes that help first-generation and underserved students avoid early financial surprises.
For Returning Students:
- Track Your Progress: Ongoing visibility into remaining eligibility and projected costs for degree completion.
- Seamless Renewals: Automated processes to reduce funding gaps between semesters.
- Responsible Borrowing: Tools that support financial literacy as students progress toward graduation.
What to Expect & Next Steps
For Students
You are not required to do anything at this time. You can log in using your ACE credentials to review your financial aid information, complete tasks, and upload any required documents.
- Action Item: Please check your Rebelmail account regularly for updates.
For Staff & Advisors
Financial aid and scholarships staff, academic advisors, and support teams will receive training materials to ensure a smooth transition. Continued training will be provided as new phases are launched.
Contacts & Support
If you have financial aid questions about your specific aid package or the new system:
Project Leadership
- Nora Carroll, Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships (Project Lead)
- Barb Roberts, Acting Senior Vice Provost for Academic Affairs (Project Sponsor)
- Carrie Trentham, Assistant Vice President for Digital Enablement (Project Sponsor)