Why Completing the FAFSA Matters for Your Future

Whether you’re an undergraduate, degree completion, credential or graduate student, the FAFSA opens the door to a wide range of financial aid opportunities designed to support your academic journey.

FAFSA: Your First Step Toward Financial Aid

The FAFSA is the key application used to determine your eligibility for federal, state and institutional financial aid. At FPU, financial aid is intended to supplement what students and families can contribute toward educational expenses.

By completing the FAFSA, you allow the university to consider you for aid from multiple sources, including:

• Federal and state grants
• University scholarships and grants
• Federal Work-Study opportunities
• Subsidized and unsubsidized student loans
• Parent loans

These resources can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs and help you focus more on your studies rather than financial stress.

Apply for Financial Aid Early — Even Before You’re Admitted

A common misconception is that students must be admitted before applying for financial aid. In reality, you can and should apply for financial aid at the same time you apply for admission to Fresno Pacific University.

While FPU will not review your financial aid information until your admission application is on file, submitting your FAFSA early ensures you don’t miss out on valuable funding opportunities and gives FPU time to receive your application from the Department of Education. Applying early is especially important for aid programs with limited funds.

One important form of aid is donor scholarships. The application process opens in early January and runs through mid-March. These scholarships are highly competitive, so applying early is strongly encouraged.

Important FAFSA Deadlines to Know

• FAFSA opens October 1 each year
• California priority deadline: March 2
• Last day to apply for donor scholarships: March 13

Meeting the March 2 priority deadline is crucial, as it determines eligibility for many need-based state and institutional aid programs. Applications submitted after this date may still qualify for federal aid such as the Pell Grant and Direct Loans, but some funding may no longer be available.

Graduate students should note that while they are eligible for federal loans, they are not eligible for federal grants.

How to Complete the FAFSA Successfully

1. Confirm federal eligibility requirements for financial aid
2. Use prior-prior-year tax data (from two years ago) when completing the application
3. Remember there is no fee to complete or submit the FAFSA
4. Search for Fresno Pacific University and add the school to your FAFSA

Admission Is Still Required

While you can apply for financial aid before being admitted, you must apply for admission to Fresno Pacific University in order to receive a financial aid award. Be sure to submit your application online so your financial aid package can be finalized once you’re accepted.

Invest in Your Education Today

Completing the FAFSA is more than just paperwork—it’s an investment in your future. By applying early and meeting deadlines, you maximize your access to financial resources that can make your FPU experience more affordable and attainable.

Remember that FPU donor scholarships are another important source of aid. Be sure to apply for them as well as you take the next step toward achieving your educational goals.

Don’t wait. Apply for admission, complete your FAFSA, apply for donor scholarships and take the next step toward your future at Fresno Pacific University.