2025-26 FAFSA Changes
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the best way to see if you qualify for free financial aid. RWU FAFSA SCHOOL CODE: 003410
Due to last year’s issues and delays with the new FAFSA form, we now also accept the (CSS Profile) as an optional way to receive an earlier financial aid package in advance of the FAFSA being available. The Department of Education expects another delay this year and is anticipating that the FAFSA will be available after December 1. Applicants who apply early, therefore, may opt to submit the Profile in order to get a full financial aid award shortly after their admission decision. Every applicant is automatically considered for merit scholarships, which will be provided within the acceptance letter. To qualify for need-based aid, including additional RWU grants, a financial aid application is needed. The CSS Profile is free to submit for families who make up to $100,000 a year. Please note: You will still need to complete the FAFSA when it is available so that we can confirm your federal aid. RWU’s CSS PROFILE SCHOOL CODE: 3729
Major Changes
What's changing with the FAFSA application?
Major changes include:
- The 2025-26 FAFSA will open sometime between October 1 and December 31
- Expected Family Contribution (EFC) will be replaced with the Student Aid Index (SAI)
- The form is shorter and more straightforward
- Expanded eligibility and reduced barriers for certain populations
- New regulations dictate which parent’s income will be included on the application in families where parents are divorced or separated
Tips for Success
- Priority consideration for Financial Aid is given to students who file their FAFSA between the go-live date (Between October 1 and December 31, 2024).
- Gather all documentation ahead of time (tax returns for parents for the past two years). See all .
- Send your FAFSA results to all schools of interest. This will give you a clearer picture of all of your options.
- Figure out how much you can afford. Work through this with your parents/guardians, or those you trust. We're here to help you figure out what resources are available to you.
Completed the FAFSA? Congratulations! What’s Next?
- Colleges should be receiving students' 2025-2026 FAFSA data from the U.S. Department of Education as of mid-March.
- Students who have already submitted their 2025-2026 FAFSA and need to make corrections will not be able to until mid to late April. Specific timelines will be announced when the U.S. Department of Education provides them. For more information and updates, please visit .
- Returning Students: We have already processed and sent out aid award packages to returning students who have filed a FAFSA. Please check with your financial aid counselor to see what's missing if you haven't received it yet.
Important Dates
New students who plan to begin classes in Fall 2025 should complete the FAFSA as soon as it becomes available. Returning students should complete the FAFSA by March 1.
Financial Aid is reviewed and processed on a weekly, rolling basis, once the FAFSA is live. If a FAFSA is on file at the time of admission, typically students will receive their full financial aid award within seven days of their offer of admission. If a FAFSA is filed after a student has been offered admission, they will receive their full financial aid award within seven days of filing the FAFSA.
Visit our admission page for more information about the application process for undergraduate, transfer, graduate, University College, and law students.