Apply early, secure more aid: Wayne State encourages students to complete 2027-28 FAFSA

For students planning to attend college during the 2027-28 academic year, completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early is an important first step toward making higher education more affordable.

With 93% of Wayne State University students receiving some form of financial aid, the university is encouraging current and prospective students to complete the FAFSA to explore available grants, scholarships, work-study programs and federal student loans.

"We encourage every student to complete the FAFSA, regardless of their family's financial circumstances," said Catherine Kay, senior director of financial aid at Wayne State. "Many students assume they won't qualify for assistance and miss out on opportunities that could make college more affordable. The FAFSA opens the door to federal, state and institutional financial aid programs. Completing it early gives students and families a clearer picture of their financial aid options and more time to plan for the cost of college."

The FAFSA is used to determine eligibility for several types of financial assistance. Filing early can also help students meet priority deadlines for programs with limited funding.

At Wayne State, students may qualify for additional financial support through university programs designed to reduce financial barriers and expand access to higher education.

"At Wayne State, we're committed to helping students turn their college goals into reality," said Dr. Charles Cotton, Wayne State's vice provost for strategic enrollment. "Through programs like the Wayne State Guarantee, Heart of Detroit Pledge, and other grants and scholarships, eligible students can access a tuition-free education, removing a significant barrier to earning a degree."

The Wayne State Guarantee  provides eligible Michigan students with financial assistance that can cover the full cost of tuition and standard fees. The Heart of Detroit Tuition Pledge offers eligible Detroit residents an opportunity to attend Wayne State tuition free.

For students and families navigating the FAFSA process, Wayne State offers resources to help make completing the application easier. The Office of Student Financial Aid provides workshops, individual counseling and FAFSA assistance events to help students understand the requirements, gather necessary documents and avoid common mistakes.

"We want students to see what's possible when they choose Wayne State and know that our university is invested in their success from the moment they apply through graduation," Cotton said. "An important first step in accessing these opportunities is for students and their families to complete the FAFSA."

What you'll need for the 2027-28 FAFSA:

• FSA ID (Federal Student Aid account login) for all contributors: student, and if applicable, parent(s) or spouse 

• studentaid.gov/fsa-id/create-account/launch

• Your name on your FAFSA must match your Social Security card

• 2026 income information (e.g., tax returns)

• Records of child support received

• Current balances of cash, savings and checking accounts

• Net worth of investments, businesses and farms

For more information, please visit the Office of Student Financial Aid's FAFSA event website. Additional resources are available online through the U.S. Department of Education.