FAFSA and Financial Aid Tips

All seniors are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid as a graduation requirement in accordance with 70 O.S. § 1210.508-6; however, if you choose not to complete the FAFSA, you can sign an Opt Out Form in the Spring to exempt you from the requirement.

You need to complete the FAFSA if you plan to attend a Junior College, College, University and even some Trade/Technical Schools. The FAFSA application determines whether you qualify for free money for college, and provides the best options for Student Loans, and often is required if you are completing scholarship applications. 

The FAFSA opens October 1st each year. Students will complete the FAFSA during their Senior year to be eligible for Financial Aid in the Fall of the next year, and will need to complete the FAFSA each year they are in college/trade school. Some grant (free) money is first come/first serve, and you can miss out if you do not apply before the money is gone. 

Links to helpful videos and resources:  https://studentaid.gov/resources

UCanGo2 Publications: https://www.okcollegestart.org/Home/Educators/UCanGo2/FinAid_Publications.aspx#FinAid-pubs

Link to set up your FSAID Student Aid Account (both you and a parent must have an FSAID set up to sign the FAFSA) -

How to Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LeQZkQU2Kk

Link to Create your Account: https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id/create-account/launch

Link to Complete the Fall 2026-2027 FAFSA Application:

https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa