Filing the FAFSA
The FAFSA is a free application to apply for financial aid. To avoid missing important deadlines file early.
Apply for Financial Aid at Bluffton University
College should be about opportunity, not financial stress. At Bluffton University, we’re committed to helping you access grants, scholarships, loans and student jobs so you can focus on your goals, not your bills. The first step? Apply for financial aid by submitting your FAFSA® and following our process below.
Why Financial Aid Matters
- Your FAFSA® unlocks federal grants, state aid and institutional scholarships.
- Bluffton’s school code is 003016, so make sure you include this when you file.
- We’ve set a priority filing deadline of May 1 each year. Students filing any later could risk missing need‑based funds.
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Create your FSA ID at www.studentaid.gov. — You and a parent (if required) will need one to access and sign federal aid documents.
- Complete the FAFSA® application online — Use it for the upcoming academic year (for example, 2026‑27) using the current
tax return info from 2024.
- Apply online at FAFSA® Application | Federal Student Aid.
- If you or your parent’s income has drastically changed for 2026 you be considered
for additional financial aid support. Report special circumstances.
- Bluffton receives your FAFSA® data — We’ll review it along with any additional requested documents. Then we’ll send
you a financial aid offer letter.
- Students who have not previously borrowed Federal Direct Loans through Bluffton University
need to complete Entrance Loan Counseling and a Master Promissory Note (MPN) at Entrance Counseling | Federal Student Aid.
- Students who have not previously borrowed Federal Direct Loans through Bluffton University
need to complete Entrance Loan Counseling and a Master Promissory Note (MPN) at Entrance Counseling | Federal Student Aid.
- Follow up — If selected for verification, submit any required worksheets or documents promptly. Loans only disburse once entrance counseling and Master Promissory Note (MPN) are complete.
What Comes Next After You Apply
- Review your offer letter, which outlines what federal, state, and Bluffton aid you’re eligible for.
- Decide whether to accept or decline any offered loans and finalize your payment plan for the semester.
- Apply for campus jobs. Use the “Learn & Earn E-Hire” link on my.Bluffton to apply for as many roles as you like. Students may earn up to the amount listed on their financial aid offer, however this amount is not a guarantee.
Keep your aid by making satisfactory academic progress, staying enrolled, and following all terms & conditions.