Virginia students whose family income level is less than $40,000 per year will qualify for a Gateway grant that covers all unmet financial need up to the full cost of education.  All students who submit an undergraduate application for the Office of Admission by January 1 and a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) that specifies William and Mary’s federal school code (003705) by February 15 automatically will be considered. No special application is necessary to be considered.

As with all need-based financial aid packages awarded by the College, annual review of a family’s financial circumstances may result in more or less aid, depending on the assessed need.  Most families have increases in earnings from year to year and may go over this level. As long as the rise is fairly small and in line with inflationary changes, i.e. 3-4% per year currently, students will continue to receive the Gateway award. If the increase is larger than this amount, the aid will be the same as other needy Virginians, who receive some of their aid as loans rather than all grants.

The Office of Financial Aid has information on completeing the FAFSA, applying for work-study positions, and can help to answer your questions on applying for financial aid based on your individual situation.