FAFSA Launch Delayed
Due to significant changes to the 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, the launch date has been pushed from Oct. 1 until sometime in December.
We'll continue to update this page as we receive more information from the Department of Education and Federal Student Aid.
Helping You Navigate Changes to Financial Aid
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is changing. With new requirements and features, students and families should prepare for a different application process than in previous years.
At Western Washington University, we're committed to helping you navigate these changes. We are here to guide you through the process and ensure you make the most of your financial aid opportunities.
Keep an eye out for the latest updates and let us assist you in securing the support you need for your education!
Sign Up for FAFSA Reminders and Updates
The FAFSA Is Changing. Are You Ready?
How to Prepare for the FAFSA
The 2024-25 FAFSA will determine your financial aid eligibility for the upcoming academic year.
While the 2024-25 FAFSA won’t be available until December, you can still prepare by creating an FSA ID on the Federal Student Aid website. You can also get a head start by assisting contributors, such as your parent(s) or spouse, in creating an FSA ID. A FSA ID gives you access to the Federal Student Aid’s online system and serves as your electronic signature.
Frequently Asked Questions
An FSA ID is a username and password that you must use to log in to certain U.S. Department of Education (ED) websites. Your FSA ID identifies you as someone who has the right to access your own personal information on ED websites such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).
Beginning with the 2024-25 FAFSA®, all contributors (student, student’s spouse, and/or parent) must have their own FSA ID.
To retrieve a forgotten FSA ID or password, visit the Student Aid website and click either the “Forgot my Username” or “Forgot my Password” links.
If you’ve got a Social Security Number (SSN), you can create it now! In general, because it can take up to 5 business days, we recommend creating it at least a week before you start your FAFSA®. Those without SSNs will likely have to wait until December 2023 before the system is able to create their FSA IDs.
What's Changed in the 2024-2025 FAFSA Form?
The updated FAFSA application will have an updated process with fewer questions and requirements. Your tax information will be retrieved through a direct data exchange with the IRS.
The 2024-25 FAFSA will not be available until December 2023, a major change from the usual October 1 opening.
Financial Aid Timeline for New Students
|
December |
|
|---|---|
| February 28 | Western’s FAFSA and WASFA priority deadline |
| Early April | Western financial aid offers mailed to students |
| April – June | Revised financial aid offers will be posted in Web4U if additional documentation is provided or reviewed |
| May 1 | Last day to commit to Western by submitting your enrollment confirmation form and fee |
More Information
Have questions about the changes? Visit our FAFSA Frequently Asked Questions page and sign up for reminders and updates.