<p>I have orientatation coming up in a few weeks and I was notified that I can pay my fall 2009 there or online afterwards. I havent gotten any letters or checks in the mail from the grant money that I recieved. Am I suppose to?</p>
<p>Also how do I pay off the bill. My parents are paying but do I open up my own bank account and pay using money in my bank account</p>
<p>I’m so confused.</p>
<p>Look at the financial aid portion of the college’s website - it should tell you how and when the bills are handled. Typically, you would receive a paper bill or online statement. Most grants are paid to the college, so you’ll see a credit for the expected award/pending payment for those. Ditto for student loans. The balance for the upcoming semester will be due from your family/you. You can send a check, sign up for a payment plan if your school offers one, or even pay by credit card at many schools (if your parents want to get the “rewards” points). This cycle will repeat prior to the start of each semester.</p>
<p>So, it doesn’t really matter whose name is at the top of the check as long as it gets credited to your account (make sure you/your folks do check on your account periodically if possible to avoid unpleasant surprises) but I would plan to open a bank account anyway, though, preferably one that your parents can access for deposits and that has a branch/ATM at or near your school so you can get cash when you need it.</p>