Make copies of all forms for yourself. Find out if you need to send a separate loan application to the bank. Find out and comply with all deadlines for loans, scholarships, and fellowships. The University provides a list of often chosen banks. These lending institutions are easier to deal with and speed the process because funds can be transferred electronically.
Processes are already well established.
Many scholarships and grants require written recommendations from professors or employers. Please keep in mind that getting recommendations can be time consuming. The sooner you ask for recommendations, the less likely you are to experience delays in your applications process.