Friends University ready to implement new FAFSA date change

Students attending college will now be able to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) much earlier than in the past using earlier income tax information for its completion. FAFSA information can be submitted as early as Oct. 1 compared to the previous date of Jan. 1.

“Friends University is fully prepared for this change in policy, and we welcome it. We are excited that students will be able to make well-informed decisions about the cost of college earlier,” said Tony Lubbers, director of financial aid at Friends University. “It should give students and families more time to explore their financial aid options.”

Families can use their previous year’s tax information for the FAFSA. For example, students intending to enroll for the Fall 2017 semester can submit their 2017-18 FAFSA forms starting Oct. 1, 2016, using tax information from 2015.

“Our financial aid representatives would love to sit down and talk with students about their financial need and this gives us a chance to do it earlier,” Lubbers said.

He noted that at Friends University 100 percent of traditional undergraduate students receive financial aid, many students graduate with less student debt when compared to other national public and private universities, and Friends University has earned a high ranking (#44 in the nation) in risk/reward, meaning many graduates earn a good salary for their investment upon graduation.

For more information, contact financialaid@friends.edu or call 316-295-5200.

Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual and professional lives.