Western Wyoming College (Western) encourages current and prospective students to complete the 2027–2028 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), now available at StudentAid.gov.

The application opened earlier than ever before, giving students and families additional time to explore financial aid opportunities and plan for the upcoming academic year.

The Wyoming Community College Commission (WCCC) recommends completing the FAFSA by February 1, 2027, to maximize consideration for available financial aid. Western also recommends submitting the application at least six to eight weeks before the semester begins to allow time for financial planning. Students can complete the FAFSA for free at StudentAid.gov and enter Western’s federal school code, 003933, to have their information sent to the College.

“One of the most important things we want students and families to understand is that completing the FAFSA doesn’t mean committing to student loans,” said Mark Rembacz, Interim Vice President of Student Services at Western Wyoming College. “It’s a free application that helps students understand what financial assistance may be available to them. We encourage everyone to complete it, even if they aren’t sure they’ll qualify.”

The FAFSA determines eligibility for federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, work-study opportunities, and federal student loans. Information from the application may also be used to determine eligibility for certain state and institutional aid programs.

Western offers a variety of financial assistance opportunities, including institutional and Foundation scholarships, the Hathaway Scholarship for qualifying Wyoming high school graduates, Wyoming’s Tomorrow for eligible adult learners, and Wyoming Works funding for approved workforce training programs.

Students interested in Western’s institutional scholarships should also complete the College’s separate scholarship application, as submitting the FAFSA alone does not automatically apply students for every scholarship. Eligibility requirements and application processes vary by program.

Financial aid opportunities are not limited to recent high school graduates. Adults returning to college, students pursuing eligible certificate or degree programs, and students attending classes in person or online may also qualify for assistance, depending on their circumstances and program eligibility.

“Discovering what financial aid is available can change a student’s future, and it all starts with the FAFSA,” said WCCC Executive Director Dr. Laurel Ballard.

Western’s Financial Aid Office is available to assist students and families with questions about completing the FAFSA, exploring scholarship opportunities, understanding eligibility requirements, and navigating the financial aid process. Students can visit Mustang Central, located near the main entrance of Western’s Rock Springs campus, call (307) 382-1677, or email financialaid@westernwyoming.edu.