Hobart and William Smith Colleges

The U.S. Department of Education is reporting that the Free Application for Federal Student Aid will be available on December 1, 2024 for students who are planning to begin their college careers in Fall 2025. We are hopeful that, unlike last year, the FAFSA will be available on time and easy for students and families to complete.

Hobart and William Smith’s pledge to all applicants and their families is that the HWS Admissions and Financial Aid team will keep you informed about the 2025-2026 FAFSA, lend support as you navigate challenges that arise, and ensure that you receive all the federal student financial aid to which you are entitled.

Last year, the HWS team worked with hundreds of students and families to de-mystify the FAFSA—and enrolled the largest first-year class in years. We are ready to support students and families as you decide which institution is the best academic, social and financial fit.

UPCOMING WEBINARS

In November, the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid at HWS will be holding a series of webinars about the FAFSA. Be sure you are on our mailing list to receive details.

2025-26 FAFSA FAQS

Q: How do I ensure that my FAFSA is sent to all the schools I've selected? 
A: When you input the school code while selecting the schools in your FAFSA application, the Department of Education will automatically send it to those schools. You will receive a confirmation email from the Department of Education verifying the distribution. 

Q: Can I enter my information manually in the FAFSA application? 
A: The new FAFSA system, called data exchange, mandates the use of the automated process. Manual entry is only considered in exceptional cases where filing status or unique circumstances prevent the use of the automated process. The FAFSA interface will guide you if this applies to your situation. 

Q: What changes have occurred with the IRS data retrieval process? 
A: The IRS data retrieval process, now called data exchange, is more robust and mandatory in most cases. Unlike the previous option of IRS data retrieval, the new process does not allow manual entry except in specific circumstances. The interface will guide you through the steps, and it is essential to follow the instructions provided during the FAFSA application. 

Q: Can I use the FAFSA sign-in from my older child's entries for my younger child?
A: Yes, if you have previously created a FAFSA account for an older child, you can use the same account as a parent for a younger child. Creating your own account without an invitation is not a problem, and it allows for a smoother process. 

Q: My student didn't receive an email, but the FAFSA portal says it's in review. Should I be concerned? 
A: If the FAFSA portal indicates that the application is in review, and you see the relevant information, such as a DRN (Data Release Number) number and a SAI (Student Aid Index) amount, you should not worry. If there are any additional requirements or issues, financial aid administrators will reach out to you. Ensure that the contributing parent signs off when necessary. 

Q: My student received an email confirming FAFSA application receipt. Are they all set, or is there more to be done? 
A: If you receive an email that contains a DRN (Data Release Number) number and a SAI (Student Aid Index) value, you should be fine.  Financial aid administrators will communicate with you if more information is needed or if any issues arise during the processing of the application. 

Q: Can I print out the information submitted through the FAFSA platform? 
A: The FAFSA platform, operating as a data exchange, may not offer an option to print out the submitted data. However, once the data is received by the colleges, they can verify the information and discuss it with you if needed. Consider reaching out to the financial aid office for assistance in reviewing the details. 

Q: Are there tricky questions on the FAFSA, and how can they be addressed? 
A: While the FAFSA questions are generally straightforward, some might need clarification. Questions about parent definitions, inclusion/exclusion of assets, and understanding the treatment of certain accounts can be challenging. If you have specific concerns, financial aid administrators can provide assistance. It is essential to read the directions carefully and seek help if needed. 

Q: What grants are available from the FAFSA, besides Pell and TAP? 
A: TAP is a NY State program, not a federal program. You can start your application for TAP at the end of the FAFSA, but eligibility for TAP is not determined by the FAFSA data. In addition to Pell, the FAFSA considers the SEOG (Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant) for particularly needy students. Financial aid offices may also offer need-based grants on top of merit aid based on the FAFSA information. 

Q: Is early submission of the FAFSA advantageous in receiving financial aid? 
A: Early submission may be advantageous for planning and comparing aid packages from different schools. While some funds like work-study or SEOG might have limited availability, HWS strives for fairness in distribution to eligible students. At HWS, submitting the FAFSA later won't negatively impact your eligibility for financial aid. 

Q: Where can I find information about SAI scores and their ranges?
A: If you want a breakdown of SAI scores, you can log into your FAFSA account to view the calculated SAI (Student Aid Index) value. The SAI is determined based on parents' income and assets, students' income and assets, and family size. 

Q: What is the lowest and highest possible SAI score?
A: The lowest SAI score is -1500. There isn't a specified maximum score, but it is essential to ensure accuracy in entering information. 

Q: What date should be used for the current market value of assets and investments on the FAFSA?
A: Use the date you file the FAFSA as the reference date for the current market value of assets and investments. 

Q: If I receive an estimated SAI index number, does that mean the form was completed correctly?
A: Generally, yes. An estimated SAI index suggests that the form was completed correctly, unless there were errors in entering family size or other information. 

Q: What if the email states it cannot calculate the SAI for the student?
A: If you receive an email stating that the SAI cannot be calculated, log into your FAFSA account to investigate and make sure all required information is completed. If issues persist, contact the financial aid office. 

Q: Does HWS have a commitment to a maximum amount of student loans a student would need to take to meet the cost of attendance?
A: HWS typically packages federal student loans, and if additional loans are needed, they would be either through the parent or private loans. There isn't a set maximum, but it's instead a decision to be made by the student and family. 

Q: Is there an SAI number where you're over the threshold for financial aid?
A: There isn't a specific SAI number that disqualifies you from financial aid. Even if your SAI is over the threshold for the Pell grant, you may still qualify for need-based aid. 

Q: If I completed the CSS profile, can that expedite the financial aid process at HWS?
A: HWS primarily relies on the FAFSA for domestic students. While the CSS profile provides additional financial information, it may not expedite the process, and the FAFSA remains essential for federal aid determination.