How to Apply for Aid

Step-by-Step Directions

1. 1. Obtain or retrieve your FSA User ID’s. Each individual who has information listed on the FAFSA  (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is referred to as a contributor.  In most cases, each contributor will need their own FSA User ID and password.  Each contributor who files a tax return will have their tax information transferred to the FAFSA via the FADDX. (Future Act Direct Data Exchange.) This requires that each contributor grant electronic consent via their FSA User ID and password in addition to signing the FAFSA.
   2. Collect the information necessary to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Items needed to complete the FAFSA include the applicant’s social security number, prior year tax returns and/or W-2 statements, bank statements, current value of non-retirement investments, and net worth of properties such as rental units, investment farms and second homes. Dependent student parent(s) must also provide similar information on the application.
   3. Complete the FAFSA electronically using Luther’s school code of 001874. We recommend that incoming students submit an application as soon as possible. Continuing students need to have their FAFSA filed by April 15th. Iowa residents must submit a FAFSA no later than July 1 to be considered for state aid. Detailed instructions are available and once completed, print a copy of the FAFSA for your records.

** Please note that students who are legal residents of Iowa, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Vermont will be directed to a state-approved URL to complete their state applications separately. State Aid Websites

1. Submit additional documents we may request in a timely manner. For new students, we will contact you via email or phone if additional documentation is required. Continuing students need to review “My Documents” on the norsehub.luther.edu site to view outstanding forms required to complete their file.
2. Apply for all outside sources of assistance for which you are eligible. Community organizations, churches, insurance companies, corporations, and employers often give awards and/or matching grants based on financial need, academic achievement or membership. For reference, check our list of outside scholarships. In most cases, outside scholarships will reduce the amount of loan you will need to finance your Luther education.
3. If there are special circumstances that affect your or your parent’s ability to contribute towards your educational expenses, please review the Special Circumstances Reporting section of our website.

Award notifications will be mailed to new students  and emailed to continuing students’ Luther email accounts.

Additional Information