APPLYING FOR FEDERAL AID IS FREE!
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on-line is the first step in the process.
Students are encouraged to talk to the financial aid staff at the schools they hope to attend to learn about financial aid packaging and other sources of assistance. Schools determine eligibility based on information supplied on the FAFSA form. The process of finding resources to assist in paying for a higher education begins with the completion of the FAFSA.
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Narrow your college/school selection and apply for admissions at each of these institutions as soon as possible. Complete school admission applications and indicate those schools on the FAFSA to receive your financial aid information. Be aware of priority deadline dates established by schools for processing applications for federal aid.
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To apply for Federal grants, work study, and loans, the student and one parent should apply for a PIN.
www.pin.ed.gov
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Upon receipt of your PIN, complete the FAFSA on-line at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Submit the FAFSA as soon AFTER JANUARY 1ST as possible, listing up to 10 possible school choices. If a PIN is not used, students and parents must print and sign a separate signature sheet and mail within 14 days of the electronic submission of information.
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To ensure that the most current financial information is used in calculating eligibility, the previous year’s Federal tax returns for both the parent and student, if applicable, should be completed. It is not necessary that they have been filed.
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Some schools require students to complete a separate form for institutional aid. Be sure to check with the school.