Financial aid disbursement can be a bit of a waiting game. Once the Department of Education processes your FAFSA, which takes about 3 to 10 days, the school-level processing kicks in, and that part can take a bit longer. Generally, government financial aid is sent to your college at the start of each semester and is usually applied directly towards your education costs. So, while the initial processing might be quick, the actual disbursement to your student account happens at the beginning of the semester. If you're feeling impatient, just remember that good things come to those who wait... and to those who check in with their financial aid office for updates! 😊