Student Guidance and FAQs

What Students Need to Know About a Federal Government Shutdown

A government shutdown happens when Congress doesn’t pass funding for federal agencies. During that time, many federal employees are furloughed, and some programs pause or slow down.

Here’s what that might mean for you — and what you can do.

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What Could Be Affected

  • Research and Fellowships:
    • Institutional Funding (through UW): If you are paid through a university research grant or assistantship, your pay will continue unless you are notified otherwise.
    • Direct Federal Funding (paid to you directly by the agency): If you receive a fellowship or stipend directly from a federal agency (such as NSF, NIH, or USDA), payments or renewals could be delayed.
  • Access to Federal Facilities: Labs, research centers, or websites run by federal agencies may close or have limited access.
  • Communication Delays: Agency staff may not respond to emails or calls until the shutdown ends.
  • Proposal Submissions: Grant submissions can continue as Federal electronic systems remain operational, but reviews may be paused or delayed.
  • Student Financial Aid: Typically, student aid is not impacted by a shutdown. Most aid programs are funded a year in advance, they should not be impacted by a short-term shutdown.

 

What You Can Do

  • Stay Updated: Watch for messages from your program, research office, Financial Aid Office, or funding agency.
  • Communicate Early: Tell your advisor or department if your research, pay, or funding is affected.
  • Keep Records: Note any project or payment delays related to the shutdown.
  • Ask for Help: Contact the Financial Aid Office, Graduate School, or Pre-Award Office if you need support or guidance.
  • Plan Ahead: If you rely on federal funds, plan for possible delays.

 

 For International Students

  • Federal agencies that handle immigration services (like USCIS or the Department of State) remain operational, but may experience slower processing times.
  • Stay in contact with your university’s International Students & Scholars Office for the latest updates or help with visa-related concerns.

 

Remember

Most impacts are temporary. Once the shutdown ends, agencies resume normal operations and catch up on pending items. Staying informed and connected will help minimize disruptions.

For questions or support, contact:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Federal Government Shutdown and Student Impacts

Updated October 10, 2025

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A shutdown occurs when Congress does not pass legislation to fund federal agencies. Many federal employees are furloughed, and agencies may pause or slow their normal operations. The length and impact of a shutdown depend on how long funding is delayed.

Most students will experience minimal direct impact, but those supported by federal funding or programs may see temporary disruptions.

That depends on how you are funded:

  • Through the University (e.g., research or teaching assistantship): Your pay will likely continue as scheduled if the University has already received the award.
  • Directly from a Federal Agency: Payments or renewals may be delayed until the agency resumes operations.

If you’re unsure how your funding is administered, contact your advisor, PI or the Office Pre-Award Services

In most cases, federal financial aid (such as Pell Grants, Direct Loans, and Work-Study) continues without interruption.

However, if the shutdown is prolonged:

  • FAFSA processing or verification might take longer.
  • Federal customer service lines may be unavailable.

If you have concerns, contact the Office of Student Financial Aid for assistance.

Federal grant proposal systems (like Grants.gov or Research.gov) remain operational, but many agencies will not process or review submissions until funding resumes. Follow guidance from your department or the Pre-Award Services team before submitting new proposals.

Access may be restricted during a shutdown. Contact your federal collaborators before scheduling visits or relying on federal resources. Keep documentation of any project delays caused by lack of access.

  • Let your advisor or PI know right away.
  • Notify your department or the Pre-Award Services if the delay affects your research progress or pay.
  • Keep written documentation (emails, notices, timelines) of how your work was impacted.

  • Agencies that handle immigration processes (like USCIS or the Department of State) may have slower processing times for visas, extensions, or travel documents.
  • Essential services often continue, but delays are possible.

Stay in close contact with the International Students & Scholars Office for the latest updates.

Stay informed, communicate early, and keep good records. Most impacts are temporary, and the UW will continue to provide guidance and support throughout the shutdown.