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Financial Aid

Financial Aid Handbook & Policies

Filing your free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Complete the as soon as possible ON or AFTER October 1 each year. It is easier to complete the application when you have your tax return information available, so it is a good idea to complete your tax return early. You must file a FAFSA each academic year that you wish to be considered for financial aid - which includes loans.

You should submit your application as early as possible to be considered for Federal Work-Study (FWS), Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG), and Perkins Loan. The Monetary Award Program (MAP) Grant for Illinois residents also has deadline dates that students should be aware of when filing for assistance - students should file their FAFSA application as soon as possible after October 1 for each year they wish to be considered for the MAP Grant. 

For early application, students may estimate the federal tax information required on the FAFSA using the previous year's tax return, the current year's W-2 forms, or their final paystubs showing year-end earnings. Once federal taxes have been filed, the student is then responsible for correcting their tax estimates and resubmitting their FAFSA application.

Once your application is received and processed by the Federal Processor, you will be sent an electronic Student Aid Report (SAR) via the email address you listed on the FASFA. Review the information carefully; respond immediately if corrections need to be made. In some instances the processor will select your file for verification. If so, you will be notified to send a Verification Form and tax information to WIU. Information required for processing Federal Direct Stafford or Federal Direct PLUS loans should be received no later than 10 working days before the end of the term.