APPLY FOR FINANCIAL AID

To be eligible for most types of financial aid, students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA) each year.

Submit your FAFSA as early as possible. SOU’s priority deadline is February 1. FAFSA submissions after February 1 are still eligible for some aid but may not be considered for certain awards.

Who files the FAFSA? United States citizens and eligible noncitizens.

• The FAFSA opens October 1. You must reapply each academic year for financial aid.
• If this is your first time completing a FAFSA, you and at least one of your parents (if you’re a dependent undergraduate student) must create an FSA ID to complete and sign your application.

Who files the ORSAA? Oregon residents who have undocumented status, including those with DACA or TPS status. Contact the SOU Financial Aid Office to learn about additional opportunities.

• The ORSAA opens October 1. You must reapply each academic year for financial aid.
• Do not complete the ORSAA if you’re a U.S. citizen, a legal noncitizen with an Alien Registration number, or an international student who is in the United States with a valid visa.

Not sure if you should file a FAFSA or the ORSAA? Take the quiz!

After Submitting Your FAFSA

• SOU begins processing FAFSAs for the upcoming year in December. If you have outstanding requirements, you’ll get an email from Student Forms with instructions.
• For the 2026-2027 school year, award offers will be processed beginning in April. Students will receive offer notifications via SOU student email.
• Once you receive your offer, you’ll need to complete your financial aid checklist.