Amid FAFSA delays affecting college affordability assessments on National College Decision Day, Saint Leo University responds by extending the deadline to June 1, providing students extra time to evaluate financial aid options and make well-informed choices for their academic future.
National College Decision Day (May 1) is an important occasion for high school seniors and their families, as it marks the deadline for students to make their final choice and submit enrollment deposits to the college or university they plan to attend. However, this year's FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) delays have made it challenging for students to make an informed decision about their college choice, as crucial financial aid information is arriving later than usual.
To help our students and their families during this uncertain time, Saint Leo University is extending the National College Decision Day deadline from May 1 to June 1. This extension will enable students to receive their financial aid decisions and packages and make an informed decision about attending our university.
If you or your family have any questions or concerns, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with your admissions counselor to receive personalized guidance and assistance throughout this process. Our team is dedicated to helping you navigate this unique situation and ensuring that you have all the information needed to make the best decision for your future.
The FAFSA delays are significantly affecting National College Decision Day, as financial aid awards play a crucial role in students' and families' evaluations of college affordability and in determining which institution best suits their needs. The U.S. Department of Education's decision to postpone the distribution of applicant information from FAFSA until March, has created substantial challenges for both students and institutions.
Schools can only prepare and send financial aid award notifications once the university receives the FAFSA information. Historically, financial aid award notifications are available around late December or early January. Due to this unprecedented delay from the Federal Department of Education, schools have not received the information needed to prepare their financial aid awards. Rest assured, Saint Leo stands ready to prepare financial aid awards as soon as FAFSA information for your student is sent to us. Families have more time to carefully review their financial options and thoroughly evaluate the cost of attending a particular institution compared to other available choices. Students and their families can navigate this complexity and make confident, well-rounded college decisions by being patient and staying informed.
Saint Leo University offers a variety of unique features and programs that set us apart from other educational institutions, as outlined in our Saint Leo Viewbook. Our commitment to providing a values-centered education in a warm and nurturing environment, combined with exceptional academic programs and dedicated faculty, makes us an attractive choice for prospective students and their families.
With over 60 degree programs available, including accelerated pathways and doctoral programs, Saint Leo University caters to a wide range of academic interests. We select our faculty based on their career experience and teaching ability, ensuring students receive guidance from knowledgeable professionals who incorporate the latest technology into every classroom. From day one, our professors work closely with students to understand their academic and professional goals, emphasizing hands-on experience to provide skills that potential employers highly value.
Our vibrant campus environment, enriched with over 60 student-led clubs and organizations, promotes growth, networking, and a sense of belonging. Additionally, Saint Leo University offers one of the lowest private education tuition rates in Florida and provides scholarships and financial awards to help reduce costs for our students.
To further assist students and families, our Student Financial Services provide expert guidance throughout the financial aid process, addressing any questions or concerns regarding aid eligibility. Our Student Financial Advisors are available at (800) 240-7658, Monday – Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm ET.
In response to the FAFSA delays and the challenges they pose, extending the National College Decision Day deadline demonstrates Saint Leo University's dedication to supporting our students and their families in making informed decisions for their academic future.