STEP 1: COMPLETE THE FAFSA
The road to financial aid starts with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (or FAFSA).
The information you provide on this form will be used to determine how much aid—and what types of aid—you’ll be offered at each of the schools you’re considering.
Some types of financial aid—like grants and scholarships—are made available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s important that you submit your FAFSA as early as possible after January 1. You won’t be able to receive any amount of federal aid (including loans) until your FAFSA has been processed.
If you would like to get a jump start on the FAFSA process, try the FAFSA4caster offered by the U.S. Department of Education. This free online tool will help you to explore your financial aid options.
What You’ll Need
- Social Security Number
- Tax and income information
- Investment and mortgage information (if applicable)
- If you are claimed as a dependent for tax purposes, you will need to supply this information for your parents as well.
Quick Tips
- The FAFSA is required before you can receive financial aid and federal loans.
- Complete your FAFSA after January 1 and no later than June 30.
- You may need your parents help to complete the form.
- Save time and complete your FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.
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