Shepherd University wants to keep you informed about delays surrounding the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) announced by the Department of Education on January 30. Interruptions in data transmission are creating complications for students trying to determine the affordability of a college education. We are working to minimize the disruption and stress created by this situation by providing our prospective students and families with as much information as possible while we wait for more details from the Department of Education. Shepherd staff are available to answer questions and assist.
Feb 13, 2024 UPDATE:
The U.S. Department of Education announced plans to limit the verification of aid applications and reduce program reviews to let colleges and universities focus on students. That includes reducing the proportion of financial aid forms it reviews for potential inaccuracy, suspending all new reviews of colleges’ compliance with financial aid rules, and offering institutions flexibility in their applications to renew their eligibility to access federal financial aid programs.
Contact the Admissions office |
| Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. |
| Call: 304.876.5212 |
| Email: admission@shepherd.edu |
We will share the latest news, timelines, and resources with you on this website so you have what you need to make an informed decision. We will also continue to be flexible with deadlines to give you the time you need to make the decision to attend Shepherd.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the FAFSA pushed back?
The U.S. Department of Education revamped the FAFSA form last year to make it easier to complete and to increase the number of students eligible for federal aid. The original FAFSA open date was moved from October 1 to December 31 to give the Department of Education time to finish updates, pushing back the timeframe colleges and universities receive FAFSA data.
When does Shepherd University expect to send financial aid packages?
The U.S. Department of Education has indicated that colleges and universities may begin receiving FAFSA data in March. If that is the case, Shepherd can begin packaging in late April.
How are financial aid packages sent?
Packages normally get sent through the mail when FAFSA data is received. This year, Shepherd plans on sending packages electronically to get financial aid information to students as fast as possible. They may be mailed as well, depending on when the Department of Education releases the data.
Is there a way for me to know how much Shepherd University will cost for the upcoming academic year?
Students can see their individual costs when financial aid packages become available. Until then, students can contact the Office of Admissions or Financial Aid for questions about what they may be eligible for, use our net price calculator for an estimate, and look at our scholarship opportunities. You may also use the Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid Estimator. Please contact us at 304-876-5212 if you have questions about scholarship eligibility.
When is Shepherd’s enrollment deposit deadline?
Many colleges and universities have a deposit deadline of May 1, but Shepherd University accepts enrollment deposits on a rolling basis. This flexibility gives applicants additional time to decide to join the Ram Fam. We do encourage students to make their commitment to Shepherd as soon as possible so we have more time to work through any questions. Students can pay their deposit any time before classes begin in August.
What can students do while they wait for financial aid awards?
Students and families can monitor Shepherd’s FAFSA page. It will be updated as information is released by the Department of Education. Students and families should be prepared to update FAFSA information if asked by financial aid offices. We encourage students to be patient as we work through the new FAFSA. Shepherd will send aid packages as soon as possible.
If you are interested in learning more about financial aid, please take advantage of these resources:
- Consider completing the 2024-2025 FAFSA form now so you are ready when the process resumes
- Inform your decision by getting an estimate on financial aid eligibility with our net price calculator
- Get more information about additional scholarship and aid opportunities on our financial aid webpage