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The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2026-27 school year is now available. We recommend that all students complete the FAFSA, regardless of whether you expect to qualify for any financial aid. 

How to Apply
Follow our step-by-step FAFSA checklist

• USU School Code: 003677
• Returning students may see pre-filled FAFSA fields. Update your tax year information and review everything for accuracy.
• Online submission is faster and less error-prone than a paper application.

Eligibility

• You must be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen admitted to a degree-seeking program at USU.
• See the Department of Education’s full federal eligibility requirements.
• Students in specific certificate programs should contact our office to confirm aid eligibility.
• The FAFSA determines eligibility not only for federal aid, including grants, federal loans, and work-study, but also for many USU scholarships.

Deadlines & Processing Time

• FAFSA must be filed each academic year you want to receive aid, and it covers fall, spring, and summer semesters.
• Apply 2–3 months before classes start to avoid processing delays.
• While some FAFSAs may process in 1–2 weeks, federal verification can extend this timeline to several weeks.
• You may still submit the FAFSA during the semester you’re seeking aid, but early application is best.

Special Situations

• Transfer Students: Aid eligibility may be limited by federal lifetime caps for Pell Grants and student loans.
• Marriage & FAFSA: If you are engaged or newly married, please visit our Change of Marital Status page for guidance.
• Unusual Circumstances: If your financial situation has changed since submitting your FAFSA, please contact us so we can review your case and assist in determining your eligibility for an appeal.

Other Scholarships
Explore additional opportunities through the USU Scholarship Portal.

Need Help?
Our Student Financial Support Office can answer questions about the FAFSA, scholarships, and financial coaching.