Understanding the FAFSA

To qualify for many types of aid, you’ll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application gives you access to these types of aid:

• Grants and scholarships: money you don’t have to pay back

• Work-study jobs: paid, part-time work that’s generally on campus

• Loans: money you need to pay back, usually after you graduate

Complete the form online at www.fafsa.gov or download paper forms there. You can even import your family’s tax information directly from the IRS website. If you need assistance come to the FAFSA Help Night!

WHO should file the FAFSA?

All college-bound high school seniors and returning college students should file the 2019-2020 FAFSA. This applies to both dependent and independent students. You don’t need to know which school you will be attending to file. List the colleges you’re applying to on the FAFSA when you file. You can always edit your list later by simply logging in to your account. 

WHAT do I need to file the FAFSA?

Filing is easier if you have gathered everything you need before you get started. If you are a dependent student you will need the following information for yourself, as well as your parents. If you are married you will need this information for your spouse also.

• • Social Security Number (or Alien Registration Number if you are not a US citizen)

  • Student’s driver’s license (if applicable)

  • Tax return for you (and your parents, if applicable) from the prior-prior year. For the 2019-2020 FAFSA, this is your 2017 tax return.

  • Bank statements, records of investments, and records of untaxed income (such as veteran’s non education benefits and child support)

  • An FSA ID to electronically sign the form (students and parents will each need their own FSA ID)