New graduate students interested in federal need-based aid processed and coordinated by Alfred should complete the required applications as soon as possible after acceptance to the University. Returning graduate students applying for University awarded federal need-based aid, must complete their application by March 15 of the preceding year. Federal loans require 4-6 weeks processing time to insure that funds will be available at enrollment. Go to Filing Forms.

The Student Financial Aid Office will notify students of their federal need-based aid eligibility by letter after the student is accepted for admission. This correspondence will identify specific aid program eligibility and provide further instructions for finalizing aid.

Assistantships and fellowships are critical factors included in the determination of a student's eligibility for federal need-based aid. Consequently, a decision regarding a student's receipt of these awards must be made before need-based aid eligibility can be established.