Apply for Financial Aid
To apply for state and federal financial aid, you need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
You’ll need to file a FAFSA each year you wish to receive financial aid. Filing the FAFSA as a first-year student doesn’t mean you’ll automatically get financial aid your second year.
Financial aid is usually awarded for the Fall and Spring semesters. But aid is also available if you want to take Summer Session and Winter Session courses or study abroad.
This is the general process for receiving financial aid at the start of Fall semester.
Get updated on what’s happening with financial aid for the 2024-2025 academic year from the comfort of your home:
- Understand your FAFSA award letter
- Get estimated costs for attending WSU
- Find out how much financial aid you’ll need
To get the most amount of financial aid, you’ll need to complete separate applications for:
- WSU Foundation scholarships
- WSU academic department scholarships
- other outside scholarship programs
If you made a mistake, you can correct information in your FAFSA online.
What if Your Circumstances Change?
Major changes in your family circumstances such as loss of employment, high medical expenses, or death could impact the financial aid you’re able to receive.
If you’ve completed the FAFSA and are experiencing this situation, you may submit a Special Conditions Review Form:
- 2024-2025 Dependent Special Conditions Review Form (PDF)
- 2024-2025 Independent Special Conditions Review Form (PDF)
The Financial Aid Office will review your information and determine whether any changes can be made.
Need help figuring out the financial aid process? Have questions about your award letter or how aid money is distributed?
Financial aid counselors are available to help you understand how you can fund your college education.