The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a crucial step in applying for financial aid for college. Follow these resources to get started and stay on track.
Step
Create an FSA ID
Gather necessary documents
Log into FAFSA.gov
Complete student demographics section
List colleges to receive FAFSA info
Provide parent financial information
Sign and submit FAFSA form
Confirm FAFSA submission
Check Student Aid Report (SAR) for accuracy
Notes
Student and parent each need one
Social Security number, 2024 tax return, W-2s, bank info
Use the official FAFSA site only
Double-check spelling of name and SSN
You can list up to 20 schools
Use IRS Direct Data Exchange when possible
Both student and parent must sign with FSA ID
Print or save confirmation page
Make corrections if needed