Important Dates

The first step? Complete the appropriate forms – as early as possible to be eligible for maximum aid.

  • Undergraduate freshman applicants who are requesting aid must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) between October 1 and March 1. The FAFSA is available online at studentaid.gov. Our FAFSA code is 003410.
  • Undergraduate transfer applicants who are requesting aid must submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) between October 1 and March 1. The FAFSA is available online at studentaid.gov. Our FAFSA code is 003410.

Here’s a quick timeline to help you get organized:

October:

  • October 1: The FAFSA is available online - and the sooner it is completed the better off you are (due by 3/1)
  • 2024-2025 FAFSA Release Delayed: The U.S. Department of Education has launched the 2024-2025 FAFSA and colleges have just begun receiving students' FAFSA data from the U.S. Department of Education as of mid-March. Students who have already submitted their 2024-2025 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 studentaid.gov. 

January:

  • Start looking at payment plans and external scholarship options
  • Notification of acceptance and merit-based scholarship awards are sent to students who have applied Early Action
  • Financial aid packages are mailed to all Early Action accepted students

February:

  • February 1: RWU application for regular decision admission is due 

March:

  • March 1: FAFSA is due for undergraduate freshmen students
  • March 1: FAFSA is due for undergraduate transfer students
  • Notification of acceptance and merit scholarship awards are sent to students who have applied Regular Decision
  • Financial aid packages are mailed to all accepted students

April and May:

  • Work on payment options – tuition and room deposits are due on June 1
  • Submit additional documentation (if applicable) to the Financial Aid Office

June:

  • June 1: Accept or Decline Federal Student Loans on Financial Aid portal
  • June 1: Tuition deposit is due
  • June 1: Room deposit is due
  • Submit any Parent Federal PLUS and other private loan applications according to application instructions
  • Complete Master Promissory Note and Entrance Counseling for Federal Direct Loans

 July and August:

  • July 1: If you have opted for a tuition payment plan, payments begin on this date
  • Finalize any additional outside funding options, celebrate your student’s high school graduation and enjoy the summer helping them get ready to go to RWU!
  • Orientation
  • Move in Day!