Completing the FAFSA®

Completing the FAFSA® gives you access to financial aid opportunities that can help make college more affordable. Even if you don’t think you’ll qualify for federal grants or student loans, many colleges, states, and scholarship organizations use FAFSA information when awarding aid.

Completing the FAFSA® does not commit you to attending a college, accepting financial aid, or borrowing money. It simply gives you options.

You won’t know what financial aid you may receive until you apply.

Anyone considering attending college, technical college, or another eligible postsecondary program should complete the FAFSA®.

This includes:

• High school seniors
• Returning college students
• Adult learners
• Graduate and professional students

Students should complete the FAFSA® each year they plan to attend school.

The FAFSA® is typically available each year beginning October 1 for the following academic year, although federal release dates may vary.

Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA® as soon as possible after it becomes available to maximize eligibility for grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and institution-specific aid.

Many colleges have priority deadlines for financial aid consideration.

Helpful Tip: Completing the FAFSA® early gives you the best chance to receive the maximum aid available.

Completing the FAFSA® is easier when you’re prepared.

Step 1: Create your StudentAid.gov account (FSA ID).

Step 2: Gather the information you’ll need, including:

• Student and parent Social Security numbers
• Alien Registration Number (if applicable)
• Federal tax information or tax returns
• Records of savings, investments, and other assets
• A list of colleges you’re interested in attending

Step 3: Complete and submit your FAFSA® at StudentAid.gov.

Most students complete the FAFSA® in less than an hour.

After you submit your FAFSA®, colleges listed on your application will receive your information and prepare a financial aid offer if you are admitted.

Your financial aid offer may include:

• Grants
• Scholarships
• Work-study opportunities
• Federal student loans

It will also include:

• Your estimated Cost of Attendance (COA)
• Your Student Aid Index (SAI)
• Any remaining costs not covered by financial aid

Review each financial aid offer carefully and compare costs, aid amounts, and remaining expenses before making your college decision.

Most students and parents will need Social Security numbers, federal tax information, records of savings and investments, and an FSA ID to complete the FAFSA®.

If your family’s income has changed significantly due to job loss, medical expenses, or other circumstances, contact the college’s Financial Aid Office. Colleges may be able to review your situation and make adjustments to your financial aid eligibility.