Radford University extends deposit deadline for first-year students in response to FAFSA delays

Radford, VA (02/28/2024) — Due to the delayed release of Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) data, Radford University is extending the deadline for first-year admitted students to deposit to June 1, 2024.

Many colleges and universities across the country are extending deposit deadlines beyond the traditional May 1 date in response to the delay.

A significant portion of Radford University students need federal and state financial aid to attend. The additional month of time allows students and their families to receive a full financial package and make informed decisions.

With the recently announced Radford Tuition Promise program, families must submit the FAFSA by March 1 to receive the benefit. As soon as the Department of Education provides FAFSA data to colleges and universities, Radford will process applications and provide aid offers to students and families as efficiently as possible.

"My brother and I are both planning to attend Radford this fall because of the Tuition Promise," said prospective Radford student Ebony Gray from Roanoke, VA. "We've submitted our FAFSA but we are waiting on next steps."

The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) recommended in late January that deposit extensions be offered. Ten organizations advocating for a more accessible and equitable future for higher education issued the following statement at that time: "Due to the continued delays in the availability of FAFSA applicant data announced by the U.S. Department of Education, we encourage colleges and universities to provide flexibility to students and families as they consider their offers of admission and financial aid."

Radford University Vice President for Enrollment Management and Strategic Communications Dannette Gomez Beane said, "We know affordability is one of the top deciding factors for students to attend college so we, at Radford, want to ensure that families have all eligible funds available to them as they make their final decision."

Radford University admissions and financial aid office officials will remain flexible throughout the summer to meet families where they are in the process and will make exceptions beyond the deadlines if needed. Radford University remains one of the most affordable colleges in Virginia. Over 80% of the student body files a FAFSA and 40% are Pell Eligible.