Free Application for Federal Student Aid
(FAFSA)
What is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?
The FAFSA® is the application that students must complete to apply for federal student aid, which can be used to attend an eligible college or career school. Federal student aid includes Federal Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study opportunities. In addition to determining eligibility for federal student aid, many states, private organizations, colleges, and career schools rely on information from the FAFSA to determine eligibility for nonfederal sources of aid. (Source: US Department of Education)
Students and parents will be able to complete the FAFSA beginning October 1, 2022 and will use prior-prior tax year information (so May 2023 graduates will need 2021 tax information). Below are the steps to take to completing the FAFSA:
Step 1: Apply for an FSA ID
An FSA ID is a username and password used to access the FAFSA and will serve as your electronic signature. Typically, both the student and ONE parent will need an FSA ID. Use the links below to help assist you in applying for an FSA ID. This must be done prior to completing the FAFSA! Apply for an FSA ID at https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id/create-account/launch.
Creating your FSA ID Power Point
Best Practices for Creating an FSA ID
Tips for Setting up an FSA ID
Step 2: File the FAFSA
Once the student and a parent have created an FSA ID, you will be ready to file the FAFSA. Students graduating in May 2023 will be completing the 2023-2024 FAFSA. Use the links below to assist you in filing the FAFSA. File the FAFSA online at www.fafsa.gov. Make sure you are on the government website - DO NOT pay to file the FAFSA.
Federal Student Aid Website - Information and resources regarding Financial Aid
What information do you need to file the FAFSA?
1. Student and Parent FSA ID
2. Student and Parent 2021 W-2 forms and/or tax returns. Parental information is required for most undergraduate students under the age of 24.
3. List of colleges the student has applied/has been accepted/is interested in attending. This way the student's FAFSA report will be sent to the financial aid office of each college and an accurate financial aid package may be awarded.
For more information on the documents you may need to file the FAFSA visit:
https://studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/filling-out#gathering-the-documents-needed-to-apply
