The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your starting point for most student financial assistance programs. Many states and schools also use the FAFSA as part of their application process for non-federal aid.
The FAFSA is a comprehensive form. Be prepared to provide extensive information about your family's income and income taxes from the previous year, assets, family size, the number of family members attending college, and more.
To maximize your chances of getting student financial aid, submit the FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1st of the year for which you are requesting aid.
If you apply before January 1st or without a Social Security number, your application will not be processed.
How-To FAFSA Videos
..................................................................................................................................................................Check out our how-to videos to make completing FAFSA easier. Submit the FAFSA as soon after Jan. 1 of the year you’ll enter college in the fall. While the federal deadline is anytime before the end of your academic year, some states have deadlines in the winter or spring. Additionally, colleges have their own deadlines for financial aid applications. Check your deadlines and file as early as you can to maximize financial aid.
Understanding the FAFSA
..................................................................................................................................................................- Ways to apply
- Completing your FAFSA
- Verifying your FAFSA
- Frequently asked questions
- Financial aid deadlines
- Renewing your FAFSA
File the FAFSA every year
..................................................................................................................................................................You'll need to submit a FAFSA every year you're in college. It takes time—but getting help to pay for college can definitely make it worth your while.
