Need-Based Aid

• The FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Augustana University strongly recommends but does not require all students to complete the FAFSA. More information can be found at studentaid.gov.

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Yes. An email notice should be sent to you each year to remind you to complete the FAFSA. You may update the FAFSA form online each year at studentaid.gov

The FAFSA is open to students on October 1 every year. The recommended deadline for submitting your FAFSA is March 1. Continuing students are encouraged to submit the FAFSA by May 1. 

Federal guidelines require that the parent or guardian that you live with (and their spouse if applicable) include their information when completing the FAFSA.

In a word, no. Federal guidelines indicate a student may be considered independent if they meet one of the following criteria:

• is at least 24 by December 31 of the award year
• is an orphan or ward of the court
• is a veteran of the US Armed Forces
• is currently serving on active duty in the US Armed Forces for purposes other than training
• is a graduate or professional student
• is a married student
• is a student who has legal dependents other than a spouse
• is a student with unusual circumstances as determined by a financial aid administrator
• is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless
   

Your EFC is determined through completing the FAFSA and is a set amount. It will be the same at every institution you are considering. The amount is calculated based on your family's financial situation. If you would like to determine your EFC, follow the directions at studentaid.gov.

Student Loan options are more diverse than these two programs. However, these two are the most widely used student loan options. A Subsidized Stafford Loan is awarded on the basis of need. It is a low interest rate loan with no interest accruing while in college. An Unsubsidized Stafford Loan is not awarded on the basis of need. This loan accrues interest from the time of disbursement. We encourage students to pay the interest on this loan; however, it is not required.