Federal Aid
The federal financial aid application process begins with the completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). In order to be considered for financial aid from the Federal Title IV programs, students must meet basic eligibility requirements.
Students who would like to be considered for need-based federal financial aid (Federal Work-Study, Federal SEOG), must complete their FAFSA by the priority filing deadline - March 15 for the 2024-25 FAFSA.
In order for us to receive a copy of your FAFSA, you must include Stony Brook University's federal school code 002838 on your application.
| Academic Year | Tax Year | Submit FAFSA as early as |
|---|---|---|
| 2022-2023 (Summer 22, Fall 22, Spring 23) | 2020 | 10/1/21 |
| 2023-2024 (Summer 23, Fall 23, Spring 24) | 2021 | 10/1/22 |
| 2024-2025 (Summer 24, Fall 24, Spring 25) | 2022 | 1/1/24 |
Note: As shown above, summer aid begins our academic year.
Students must receive and accept their award packages by the last day of the term in which they are enrolled. Check the academic calendar for specific dates for each term.
What will I need to file the FAFSA?
- Your social security number
- Your Alien Registration Number (if you are not a US Citizen)
- Your federal income tax returns, W-2s, and other records of money earned. (Note: You may be eligible to transfer your federal tax return information into your FAFSA using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool.)
- Bank statements and records of investment (if applicable)
- Records of untaxed income (if applicable)
- An FSA ID to sign electronically
Dependent students will need the above information for their parent(s) as well.
Who's My Parent When I Fill Out My FAFSA? - For FAFSA reporting purposes, parent means a student's legal (biological or adoptive) parent or stepparent, or a person that the state has determined to be your legal parent.
What is the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (DRT)?
The IRS DRT electronically transfers your federal tax return information into your FAFSA. If you are eligible, this is an easy, fast, and accurate way to complete that section of your application.
How does the IRS DRT work?
Simply click the "Link to IRS" button and login with your FSA ID to retrieve your information. You will be transferred to the IRS website, where you will enter your information exactly as it appears on your federal income tax return, and click "Submit". Check the "Transfer My Tax information into the FAFSA form" box, and click the "Transfer Now" button. You will know that your information has been successfully transferred because the words "Transferred from the IRS" will display in place of the IRS information in your FAFSA form.
Where can I get help to complete the application?
There are helpful tools and tips throughout the application which should assist you with the questions you may have. You can also visit the Filling Out the FAFSA Form on the Federal Student Aid website and our Financial Aid Video Library.
What happens after I file my application?
Our office will begin loading FAFSA forms for the next aid year in December. At that time, we will send you an e-mail confirmation. Check out our Financial Aid Timeline for details regarding what to expect after we access your application.