Filing Your FAFSA

The Federal Application For Student Aid (FAFSA) gathers information about your financial resources and your family's resources.

Once you've submitted your application, the federal aid processing center uses a congressionally mandated formula to determine your expected family contribution (EFC), the amount you and your family should be able to afford to contribute toward college expenses. The center sends your EFC to the colleges you indicate on your FAFSA.

Helpful Advice

Start Early

The financial aid process all starts with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid which can be found online at www.fafsa.gov.  File the FAFSA as early as possible — January 1 is the earliest day you can file for the following academic year. You don't have to wait until your tax returns are complete to file your FAFSA; it is better to file early with estimates than to wait for exact figures.

Everyone's Eligible

Many families tell our financial aid staff that they haven't filed a FAFSA because they feel they won't qualify. The truth is, everyone who files the FAFSA — everyone — is eligible to receive some form of financial aid, whether it's student employment or low-interest loans. We can't offer anything other than merit-based scholarships to students who don't file the FAFSA. It's worth the effort.

Our School Code

Be sure to include Southwestern's Federal School Code, 003616, on your FAFSA.

Need Help with Your FAFSA?
For step-by-step instructions on filing your FAFSA, visit the Financial Aid Web site. You can also send us an email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or give us a call at 1.888.YES.SAGU extension 4730.