Complete FAFSA Guide
Everything you need to know about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
October 1, 2024
FAFSA opens for 2025-2026 school year
March 1, 2025
Priority deadline for many states and colleges
June 30, 2025
Federal deadline for 2025-2026 FAFSA
- Social Security Number (or Alien Registration #)
- Federal tax returns (student & parent if dependent)
- Records of untaxed income and assets
- List of schools you want to apply to (up to 20)
- FSA ID for electronic signature
ScholarAI Tip
Complete your FAFSA as early as possible! Some funds are limited and awarded first-come, first-served.
Create Your FSA ID
Both students and parents (if dependent) need an FSA ID to sign the FAFSA electronically.
Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents including tax returns, records of untaxed income, and asset information.
Start Your FAFSA Application
Go to studentaid.gov and click "Start Here" to begin your application. Choose the correct school year.
Fill Out Student Information
Enter your personal information, including name, date of birth, address, citizenship status, and education details.
Determine Dependency Status
Answer questions to determine if you're a dependent or independent student for FAFSA purposes.
Note: FAFSA dependency rules are different from tax dependency rules.
Enter Financial Information
Provide financial information for yourself (and your parents if dependent) including tax information and assets.
List Your Schools
Add up to 20 schools that you're considering attending. These schools will receive your FAFSA information.
Sign and Submit
Review your application, sign electronically with your FSA ID (and parent's FSA ID if dependent), and submit.
What is the FAFSA?
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the form used to apply for federal financial aid for college, including grants, loans, and work-study programs.
Is the FAFSA really free?
Yes, the FAFSA is completely free to fill out and submit. Never pay to complete the FAFSA.
When should I submit the FAFSA?
Submit the FAFSA as soon as possible after October 1st for the following academic year. Many states and colleges have earlier deadlines for aid.
🎓 Start Your Financial Aid Journey
To access grants, loans, and work-study programs, your first step is to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
📝 What You'll Need
- Social Security Number (or Alien Registration #)
- Federal tax returns (student & parent if dependent)
- Records of untaxed income and assets
- List of schools you want to apply to (up to 20)
- FSA ID – Create it here
ScholarAI Tip: Complete your FAFSA as early as possible! It opens every year on October 1st. Some funds are limited and awarded first-come, first-served.
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