How to Apply for Federal Aid | Howard University

Federal School Code: 001448

STEP 1 : Submit a FAFSA / Renew a FAFSA

Your first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The 2024-25 FAFSA is expected to be available to you starting in December 2023. Your FAFSA is processed in several stages before it is complete and on file in the Office of Financial Aid, Scholarships and Student Employment.

When completing the FAFSA online, we encourage tax filiers to use the IRS Data Retrieval tool when completing the FAFSA to allow the information filed with the IRS to upload to the FAFSA to streamline the application process and reduce the amount of documentation we may need now or in the future.

STEP 2 : Accept Your Aid Package

A Financial Aid Award Package that details your financial aid awards will be mailed to you. The purpose of the award package is to show you what aid is available if you decide to attend Howard University. Read the instructions carefully. You must report additional benefits or gift aid (scholarships and grants) that are not included in this award package. If you make changes to the award please date, sign, and return the notification to the Office of Financial Aid. If you wish to reduce the amount of your loan, please contact the office.

STEP 3 : Receive Your Aid

Your aid may be revised according to your actual enrollment at the time you register. Aid is disbursed each semester to a student account created in your name when you are admitted to the University.

STEP 4 : Maintain Your Eligibility

To maintain your eligibility to be considered for financial aid, you must meet the standards set forth in Howard University’s financial aid policy on Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).