Bluffton University

Apply for financial aid

• Students may file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2025-26 academic year, using the 2023 tax return information. 
• The FSA ID - a username and password - is required for the student and at least one parent. Your FSA ID confirms your identity when you access your financial aid information and electronically sign Federal Student Aid documents. If you do not already have an FSA ID, you can create one at www.studentaid.gov.
• Bluffton University’s priority filing date is May 1 of each academic year. Bluffton’s school code is 003016. It is recommended that you use the optional link to the IRS when completing both the student’s and parent’s financial information. Apply online at  FAFSA® Application | Federal Student Aid.
• If you or your parent’s income has drastically changed for 2025 you be considered for additional financial aid support. Report special circumstances.
• 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. The Entrance Loan Counseling session is a quick tutorial that covers your rights and responsibilities as a student loan borrower. Loan funds cannot be disbursed until both of these are complete.
• The federal government selects some FAFSA applications for a process called verification. If your FAFSA is selected, you will be required to submit a verification worksheet along with other documentation requested by the financial aid office.
• Students can work on campus through the Learn and Earn program. Campus jobs are open to all students. Students may earn up to the amount listed on their financial aid offer, however this amount is not a guarantee.