To be considered for financial aid from the federal government, your state, or Wheaton College, you need to apply every year you plan to enroll. Below, you’ll find separate timelines for first-time Wheaton applicants and returning students. Adhering to the deadlines that apply to your specific situation is important to ensure you receive the most accurate financial aid package based on your need.
Financial aid timeline: First-time applicants
Spring
- Begin researching
- Review and compare for Wheaton College and other target schools
January 1
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is available to complete for the following school year
March 1 (and forward)
- Prospective students who have been admitted and completed all financial aid requirements start receiving notification of financial aid awards
May 1
- Deposit deadline for prospective students to confirm a spot in the new class
July 1
- Financial aid award acceptance deadline for amounts to be applied to fall invoice (Use Wheaton Portal)
Late July
- Fall invoices are posted on Wheaton Portal
July
- Federal Direct Stafford Loan Recipients Only: Complete your loan entrance counseling and master promissory note
August 28
- Fall invoice payment due (first day of classes)
January 1
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is available to complete for the following school year
Early June (and forward)
- Financial aid notifications are sent to continuing students who have completed all financial aid requirements
July 1
- Financial aid award acceptance deadline for amounts to be applied to fall invoice (Use Wheaton Portal)
Late July
- Fall invoices are posted on Wheaton Portal
July
- First-time* Federal Direct Stafford Loan Recipients Only: Complete your loan entrance counseling and master promissory note
- *If you are a Stafford Loan recipient and already completed loan entrance counseling and a master promissory note in a previous year, you may skip this step
August 28
- Fall invoice payment due (first day of classes)