How to Complete Your FAFSA

Step 1: Create an FSA ID

• Before starting the FAFSA, students and parents (if applicable) need to create an FSA ID, which serves as a username and password. This ID will be used to log in, electronically sign the application, and access financial aid records later on. To create an FSA ID:

• Visit FAFSA.

• Provide your email address, create a password, and answer security questions.

• Keep this information secure as you'll need it annually.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• To fill out the FAFSA, you will need certain documents and information. These include:

• Social Security number or Alien Registration number (if not a U.S. citizen).

• Driver’s license (if applicable).

• Tax returns from two years prior (e.g., for the 2024-2025 school year, use 2022 taxes).

• Records of untaxed income (child support, interest income, etc.).

• Bank statements and details about investments and assets.

• If you’re a dependent student, your parents’ information is required as well.

Step 3: Start the FAFSA Application

• Go to the official FAFSA website at fafsa.gov. The application typically opens on October 1st each year, and the sooner you apply, the better your chances of receiving aid, as some funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Step 4: Provide Basic Personal Information

• Student demographics: Name, Social Security number, address, citizenship status, marital status, and other identifying details.

• School selection: Enter the codes for the colleges you're applying to or considering attending. Up to 10 schools can be listed initially, and they’ll receive your FAFSA data.

• Dependency status: Determine whether you are considered dependent or independent based on a series of questions (age, marital status, children, military service, etc.). This will determine whether you need to provide parental information.

Step 5: Enter Financial Information

• The FAFSA will ask for financial data from both the student and their parents (if applicable):

• Use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (DRT): This tool allows you to automatically transfer your tax return information from the IRS to your FAFSA, which reduces errors. If eligible, use this tool to input your tax data quickly.

• Report income and assets: Include income from wages, interest, dividends, and untaxed income. You’ll also need to report cash, savings, checking account balances, and the value of any real estate or investments (excluding the primary residence).

Step 6: Sign and Submit the FAFSA

• Sign electronically: Both the student and the parent (if dependent) will use their FSA IDs to sign the FAFSA. If a parent is unable to sign electronically, they can print the signature page, sign it, and mail it.

• Submit: Once signed, submit the FAFSA online. You’ll receive a confirmation email with your submission date.

Step 7: Review the Student Aid Report (SAR)

• After submitting, you’ll receive a Student Aid Report (SAR), usually within 3-5 days if submitted online. The SAR summarizes the information you provided and includes your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which colleges use to determine financial aid eligibility. Review it carefully for any mistakes and correct errors if necessary.

Step 8: Follow Up with Colleges

• Each college you listed will receive your FAFSA information and create a financial aid package for you. These packages can include federal grants, work-study opportunities, and loans. Colleges may also offer institutional aid based on the FAFSA data.

Key Tips:

• Apply early: FAFSA funds, especially state aid and institutional scholarships, can be limited, so applying as close to October 1st as possible is beneficial.

• File annually: FAFSA must be completed every year you’re in college to remain eligible for financial aid.

• Accuracy matters: Double-check all entries for accuracy to avoid delays in processing.

By following these steps, you can maximize their financial aid potential and make college more affordable.