Students will be able to complete the FAFSA using income and tax data from 2018 for the 2020-2021 academic year - this change is being called "Prior-Prior Year" by the federal government. The process and the deadline remain the same, but students may begin the process and receive their financial aid package earlier.
If you plan to attend college from July 1, 2020-June 30, 2021, you’ll be able to submit a 2020-2021 FAFSA beginning on October 1, 2019. In the past, you couldn’t submit the FAFSA until January 1 of the year you planned to attend college. The change to October is a permanent change, and you’ll be able to complete and submit your FAFSA as early as October every year.
Frequently Asked Questions about the FAFSA
1. How do I file my FAFSA?
Before beginning the FAFSA process, you will need to create a FSA ID at www.fafsa.gov. Your FSA ID confirms your identity when you access your financial aid information, and electronically sign Federal Student Aid documents. If you are considered a "dependent" student, your parent must also create a FSA ID. Next, complete the application at www.fafsa.gov. You can utilize the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to complete your information. Our FAFSA school code is 007109. Make sure to click "SUBMIT" when you are finished with the FAFSA, and continue on to complete the TAP application if you're a New York resident.
Follow-up with your Financial Aid Advisor when you complete the FAFSA. Fill out the Applicant Statement Form and Direct Loan Request Form (Note: Loans are not automatically accepted unless you request them).
2. What is the deadline for the FAFSA?
Old Westbury's preferred deadline for the FAFSA will remain the same - April 15th of each filing year.
3. Where can I go if I have questions, or need further assistance with my FAFSA?
There are great resources on the U.S. Department of Education's Federal Student Aid website. We also have a FAFSA course module as part of our Financial Literacy at Old Westbury (FLOW) program! The short video will instruct you on the objectives, benefits, and procedure on filing the FAFSA. Of course, you may also contact the Office of Financial Aid or email your assigned Advisor for more information.