What Is Federal Financial Aid?
If you’re a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen, you may be able to receive federal financial aid1 to help you fund your higher education. Walden University is approved by the U.S. Department of Education to participate in a variety of grant and loan programs.
If you plan on using financial aid, we recommend that you start your FAFSA now.
What Are Your Options?
We’re your partner in this process. Once you’re admitted and we receive your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®), we’ll inform you of your federal financial aid options via your Walden myFinAid portal. Some federal student aid programs have their own eligibility criteria in addition to general eligibility requirements. Filling out the FAFSA is your first step!
Getting started with FAFSA®
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is an important step for determining your eligibility for federal aid. It is highly recommended that you submit your form while applying for admission or at least eight weeks before the renewal date of your existing loan to avoid any delays or interruptions in receiving financial aid.
We’re your partner in this process.
In 2022–2023 , the U.S. Department of Education provided $240.7 billion in federal financial aid to postsecondary students. We can help you find the right financial aid to complete your studies.
Policies and Disclosures
We want you to understand what impacts your financial aid at Walden. Use the links below to learn more about the process.
Financial Services processes applications for federal student aid and handles all questions relating to federal financial aid. To contact a Walden financial services advisor, phone 1-800-925-3368.
Federal Financial Aid FAQ
Yes. You can refer to Walden’s financial aid glossary to better understand financial aid terms.
Visit studentaid.gov/resources to browse articles, fact sheets, online tools, and other helpful resources to help you prepare and pay for college.
Applying for federal financial assistance is a two-part process consisting of (1) completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and notification of eligibility, and (2) acceptance of the financial aid offer and completion of the Master Promissory Note (MPN) and entrance counseling. This process takes approximately two to four weeks from the initial application through the receipt of funds. New students are strongly encouraged to complete the FAFSA application at the same time they are applying for admission. Continuing students are required to complete a renewal FAFSA for each award year they are enrolled. It is recommended to fill out the FAFSA renewal form when it becomes available from the Department of Education, usually in October. It is important to complete this at least eight weeks before the renewal date of each award year.
- If you started your Walden program on or after May 29, 2023, fill out the 2023–2024 FAFSA.
- If you are starting your Walden program on or after May 27, 2024, fill out the 2024–2025 FAFSA.
You can use your federal student loans to pay for books and materials, but books are not automatically paid for out of your financial aid. If there is money left on your account after your tuition and fees are paid, you can use the excess funds to cover the cost of books and materials. If you are in need, and your financial aid process is complete, you can request a book advance 30 days before the start of the term. The book advance is an advance on your financial aid funds, up to $500.
If there is any money left on your account after your tuition and fees are paid, Walden’s Office of the Bursar will send it to you as a refund within 14 days of the disbursement date.
A variety of factors impact the overall cost of your Walden program, and availability of financial aid including (but not limited to):
- Length of time you are in your program
- Transfer of credit eligibility
- Fees associated with residencies
- Cost of books and/or class materials
A Walden Enrollment Specialist can help you determine a personalized estimate of program cost to help guide you in your funding decisions.
The Office of Financial Services processes offers on a rolling basis. It is strongly recommended that you complete your FAFSA application at the same time you are applying for admission, or eight weeks prior to the renewal date of your existing loan. You must have a complete FAFSA within 30 days prior to the end of the term for funds to be processed for that term or financial aid award year. A complete application includes all documents required for offering and disbursing financial aid funds.