February 29, 2024
Dear Students,
We want to address the recently announced delays with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) processing this year. Typically, financial aid award letters are sent out closely following admission letters, allowing you ample time to compare offers before the National College Decision Day on May 1. However, due to unforeseen delays in the transmission of FAFSA data to colleges, there will be a delay in our ability to send out complete financial aid packages.
We understand the frustrations and challenges that come with these delays. In the meantime, we encourage you to continue completing your FAFSA and TAP (Tuition Assistance Program) applications for the 2024-25 academic year. Please do not hesitate to contact Financial Aid if you have any questions or need assistance completing your FAFSA.
- Decision Dates Extended to June 1: We have extended tuition deposit dates originally set for May 1, SUNY Oswego’s date has been extended June 1. If you get accepted after June 1, then students will have 30 days after you are accepted. This adjustment aims to ensure ample time for financial planning and enrollment decisions.
- Aid Awards Anticipated in April: SUNY Oswego anticipates receipt of the necessary data to package student aid by the middle of March and can then send financial aid award information to students in April.
- We highly encourage all students to fill out the FAFSA as soon as they are able. Filling out the FAFSA early can help the Financial Aid Office determine eligibility for any campus-based aid such as Federal Work-Study and Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG) programs. Note: campus-based aid is awarded on a first come, first serve basis, but consideration for PELL, TAP, Federal Student Loans, or institutional merit scholarships is not.
In the meantime:
- We have centralized FAFSA Updates: The Financial Aid Office will provide progress updates on our website at ww1.oswego.edu/financial-aid/fafsa-updates. We encourage you to check this page regularly for the latest information.
- We have refreshed our website: Our new site at ww1.oswego.edu/financial-aid/ provides clearer paths to aid information.
- Financial Aid Counseling: We understand that this delay might lead to questions and concerns regarding your financial aid package. Our financial aid counselors continue to be available for one-on-one sessions, virtually or in person, to discuss your individual circumstances.
Book aid appointments - Expedited Review for Urgent Cases: If you are facing an urgent financial situation, please contact our office immediately. We are prioritizing cases that require immediate attention to ensure that financial needs are met.
Book aid appointments - Workshops and Assistance: We will continue conducting workshops to assist students with the FAFSA application process and to provide guidance on other available financial aid options. Watch the FAFSA updates page for details.
- SUNY Oswego Merit Scholarships will continue to be announced on schedule by May 1 (or within 30 days of your acceptance — whichever is later) via the student portal.
SUNY Oswego remains a remarkable value for your educational investment, offering a high-quality, comprehensive education with diverse programs and a supportive community, ensuring that temporary FAFSA delays should not impede your path to academic and professional success.
Thank you for your patience.
Sincerely,
Rodrick Andrews
Assistant Vice President for Admissions and Financial Aid