FAFSA Frequently Asked Questions
Who should file a FAFSA?
Any student wishing to receive federal student loans in the coming year should file a FAFSA. Without a current FAFSA, The Office of Financial Aid cannot process any federal loan funds. Please note: You are required to fill out a FAFSA each year to receive aid, even if you have filed in the past.
When should I file my FAFSA?
Duke's priority deadline for the FAFSA is March 15. Students should file their FAFSA by the priority deadline for several reasons. Filing by the priority deadline ensures that you will receive any aid that you are eligible for (such as low interest Perkins loans). Students filing after this deadline can still receive aid, but it may be in the form of less advantageous loans than they were originally eligible for. Filing by the priority deadline assures the Office of Financial Aid has all required information to properly package you with financial aid. This aids our office in assuring funds are disbursed in a timely manner at the beginning of each semester.
How do I fill out my FAFSA?
Log on to https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa and follow the instructions provided.
We strongly recommend you utilize the new IRS Data Retrieval feature when filing your FAFSA online. IRS Data Retrieval enables filers to automatically import the tax information into the FAFSA form, saving applicants time and also ensuring accurate completion of the form. Furthermore, applicants that are selected for verification by the Department of Education who have not utilized IRS Data Retrieval may be required to resubmit the FAFSA using this option.
What FAFSA Code should I use?
Please use the code for Duke University - 002920.
Do I need to include parental information on my FAFSA?
No. Parental information is not required on the FAFSA.
I have more questions. What do I do?
Consult the Financial Aid Handbook which has answers to many common questions. Otherwise email, call, or stop by the Financial Aid Office. Our door is always open and we work diligently to assure our students are informed about all financial aid processes.