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What is FAFSA?
What is FAFSA?
FAFSA - Free Application for Federal Student Aid
Students need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form to be eligible for federal student aid such as federal grants, work-study funds, and loans. Completing and submitting the FAFSA form is free and easier than ever, and it gives you access to the largest source of aid to help you pay for college or career school.
In addition, many states and colleges use your FAFSA information to determine your eligibility for state and school aid. Some private aid providers may use your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for their aid as well.
It is based on your family's financial situation, you may qualify for aid in the form of a Pell Grant.
The 2026–27 FAFSA form will ask for 2024 tax information
APPLICATION OPENS ON OCTOBER 1ST!
All eligible seniors should fill out and submit this form, regardless of family income, if they have applied to a college, university, or trade school.
Some scholarships require to complete the FAFSA, including Merit-based scholarships.
Many state governments and colleges utilize the FAFSA to determine eligibility for their own financial aid programs, including grants and scholarships.
Some colleges review FAFSA if you decide to request additional financial assistance.
Depending on financial need, the maximum amount of aid a student may qualify for: up to $7,395 (Pell Grant)
Colleges set deadline due date; most MD colleges are typically Jan. 1. Maryland State Deadline is March 1.*
Class of 2026 will complete the 2026-2027 FAFSA
Seniors: Create you FSA ID TODAY!
Seniors: Create you FSA ID TODAY!
Complete and submit the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for the 2025-2026 school year when it opens in October 1st!
Go to https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa to create your account now. This is an important step to complete the FAFSA. Both you and one parent or guardian will need to create an FSA ID. Step-by-step directions for FAFSA can be found here: Whether or not you think you will qualify for aid, many scholarships REQUIRE you to complete the FAFSA
FAFSA Resources:
Getting Started with a StudentAid.gov Account
FAFSA® Resources and How to Avoid Financial Aid Scams
Who is considered a parent on my FAFSA Form?
Who Is a Contributor on the FAFSA Form?
How To Fill Out the FAFSA® Form
What Happens After Submitting Your FAFSA?
What Happens After Your FAFSA Form Is Processed?
Planning to attend a college or university in the state of Maryland? Sign up for an account on MDCAPS.
Depending on your FAFSA information, you may also qualify for aid from the state of Maryland. You must complete this application to receive the aid. Go to this link to create an account: MDCAPS login page.
Important!
Important!
Students who completed the FAFSA, only need to create a MDCAPS account to be considered for state financial aid.
Students who did not qualify for FAFSA can still earn financial aid by creating a MDCAPS account and completing the MHEC One App. Learn more about MHEC One App for Undocumented Students in this link.
Not eligible to complete the FAFSA?
You should complete the MHEC One App if you plan to attend a college or university in the state of Maryland. The application for the MHEC One App can be found on the MDCAPS site: MDCAPS login page. This does not require to have a Social Security Number.
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