When can I apply for financial aid?
Students can file for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) beginning Oct. 1. The FAFSA is available at https://studentaid.gov.
How does this benefit me?
You no longer need to estimate your tax information on the FAFSA, as you will use your 2021 tax return information. Because you’ll already have done your 2021 taxes by the time you fill out your 2023-24 FAFSA, you can easily enter the data from your tax return into the FAFSA. Or, you may also be eligible to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (DRT) where you can have your tax information imported directly into the FAFSA. Also, completing the FAFSA earlier will give you more time to explore your financial aid options.
Why does it matter?
Students can now apply for financial aid at the same time they submit any admission applications, due before Jan. 1, 2023. This includes Merrimack’s Early Decision and Early Action 1 deadlines.
When should I file?
Merrimack encourages you to file the FAFSA no later than your admission application deadline, as listed on the application process web pages.
When will I receive my financial-aid offer?
In order to receive the earliest possible notification of your financial aid offer, please submit your FAFSA no later than the admission application deadline you have chosen.
What is a merit-based scholarship?
Merit-based scholarships are based on a holistic review of a student’s admission record. Notification of scholarship awards are included with acceptance materials.
What is need-based financial aid?
Need-based grants, loans and work programs are available from the federal and state government and Merrimack’s own sources. To apply, students must complete the FAFSA, available at https://studentaid.gov.
What is the process for transfer students?
Transfer scholarships are a combination of need-based and merit-based funds. As stated above, to apply for need-based consideration, including federal and state grants, loans and work programs, applicants must file the FAFSA, available online at https://studentaid.gov.
