Apply for Aid

College of the Atlantic

Your path, our commitment

Paying for college can feel overwhelming—but it shouldn’t keep you from pursuing experiential leadership, interdisciplinary learning, or a future grounded in justice and sustainability. At College of the Atlantic, over 80% of students receive scholarships, grants, or other aid. We’re here to help make your COA experience financially accessible—every step of the way.

Below, you’ll find clear application steps, essential deadlines, and support for domestic, international, and returning students.

Questions? Reach out to us at financialaid@coa.edu or 800-528-0025.

Financial aid deadlines for new students

Application roundFinancial aid deadline
Early Decision INovember 15
Early ActionDecember 1
Early Decision IIJanuary 15
Regular DecisionFebruary 1
Transfer AdmissionMarch 15

Returning Students

If you’re already enrolled and seeking aid for the next academic year:

  • Domestic students: Apply as soon after December 1 as possible; deadline is March 1.
  • International students: Submit materials by March 1.

Visit our Returning Students page for forms and guidance.

How to apply for need-based aid

  1. Complete the FAFSA
  • COA school code: 011385
  • Determines your eligibility for federal and institutional need-based aid
  1. Respond to any additional requests
  • We may ask for W-2s, tax returns, or verification documents
  • If parents are separated or divorced, submit Non-Custodial Parent Finances

We use your FAFSA and supporting documents to create a personalized aid package—often including need-based grants, scholarships, and work-study.

  1. Download the International Packet
  • Includes the Certification of Finances and COA Financial Aid Application.
  1. Submit required documents
  • Bank statements, income records, or tax returns
  • All documents must be in English and show amounts in USD
  1. If admitted
  • All international students must submit the Certification of Finances to finalize their aid award.

Note: Davis UWC Scholars will have their full need met. Other international students are evaluated on a need-aware basis, with limited aid available—but we’ll do our best to create an affordable path for every admitted student.

What is the FAFSA & what do you need?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is how you apply for federal grants, loans, and COA institutional aid.

  • COA School Code: 011385
  • Renew annually (usually in winter for the upcoming academic year)

You’ll need:

  • You and your parents’ Social Security Numbers
  • Alien Registration Number (if applicable)
  • Federal tax returns, W-2s, and income records
  • Bank and investment statements
  • An FSA ID to sign electronically

Completing the FAFSA is your first step toward building a future with purpose—without unnecessary financial burden.

Ready to get started?

  1. Review your deadlines: Match your aid application to your admissions round
  2. Fill out the FAFSA or international forms: COA’s code is 011385
  3. Check your email: Respond promptly to any requests from the Financial Aid Office
  4. Have questions? Email financialaid@coa.edu or call 800-528-0025

We’re here to help you dream boldly, learn deeply—and affordably—at COA.