FAFSA

FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

The FAFSA is the first step in applying for financial aid to help pay for college, career technical education, or trade school. Completing the FAFSA may qualify you for federal grants, work-study, student loans, state aid, and many scholarships. Even if you think you may not qualify, it is strongly recommended that every senior complete the FAFSA.

The FAFSA opens on October 1 each year. Complete it as early as possible, as some financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis and many colleges and scholarship programs have priority deadlines.

Before You Begin

Be sure you and your parent(s)/contributor(s) have:

• An FSA ID (student and parent each need their own)

• Social Security numbers (if applicable)

• A valid email address

• Your 2025 federal tax information (for the 2027–28 FAFSA)

• Records of any untaxed income (if applicable)

• Current balances of cash, savings, and investments (if applicable)

Plan to complete the FAFSA together with your parent or contributor, as they will need to provide and approve their financial information before your application can be processed.