Steps to Financial Aid

We encourage all students to apply for financial aid by February 1 to receive the maximum amount of state, federal and institutional aid. Even if you think you will not qualify for federal or state financial aid, you may be eligible for a number of Willamette grants or scholarships which require the FAFSA. 

Here are the steps to apply for financial aid:

• STEP 1: Apply for admission for your program. As part of the admission process, you will be considered for merit-based scholarships. You will receive notification of your merit scholarship eligibility in your admit letter.
• STEP 2: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which is available each year starting October 1. 
• STEP 3: Review your financial aid award information which will be both mailed and emailed to you after we receive your FAFSA information and are admitted to your program. 
• STEP 4: Schedule an appointment with your admissions representative to go over your award letter to ensure that you have an exact understanding of what you received. 
• STEP 5: Accept or decline your awards online. Instructions will be included in your award letter and email. 
• STEP 6: Complete all other required paperwork. The Office of Financial Aid will notify you via email of any additional processes or paperwork required for you to receive the aid that you have been offered.

Special Information for Undocumented Students (including DACA students)

We offer generous merit scholarships to all students, and undocumented students may also qualify for institutional need-based grants. In order to qualify for these, please submit a paper FAFSA (a PDF of the form is available) to the Office of Financial Aid. Oregon residents can complete the ORSAA instead of the paper FAFSA.

Private student loans may also be available to DACA students through Sallie Mae. Students must be able to provide their Employment Authorization Document and social security number.  In addition, students will need to have a U.S. citizen or permanent resident as a co-signer. We strongly encourage students and families to research other options that might be available.  Our office will certify any loan that the student and family choose. Please contact the Office of Financial Aid if you have any questions or need assistance.