With graduation just around the corner for our Class of 2024 graduates, it’s time to think about applying for financial aid for your college plans.
You’ve probably heard about the FAFSA – but you might be wondering: what exactly is it, and how does it work? In this blog post, we'll break down the basics of the FAFSA and walk you through the steps to apply.
Don’t leave money on the table! The sooner you apply, the more chances you’ll have to receive aid.
What is the FAFSA?
The FAFSA is your golden ticket to accessing financial aid for college to help cover the costs of tuition, fees, books, and more. It's a form that helps determine your eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs, as well as other financial aid programs. The FAFSA is completely free to complete and can be an important investment in your future.
Why is the FAFSA Important?
Applying for financial aid can make college more affordable and accessible. Whether you're pursuing a degree at a community college, four-year university, or technical school, completing the FAFSA is the first step in different forms of financial assistance to help you achieve your educational goals.
How Do I Apply?
With a little bit of preparation, the FAFSA application takes only a few minutes. Follow these steps to submit your application for financial aid:
- Create an FSA ID online on the Federal Student Aid website.
- Both students and parents (also known as “contributors”) will need to create separate FSA ID numbers.
- It can take a few minutes for your FSA ID to be generated.
- Gather your documents, like your Social Security numbers, driver’s license, federal tax returns, W-2 forms, other taxable income records.
- Complete the FAFSA: Head over to the FAFSA website to complete your application. Be sure to provide accurate and up-to-date information about yourself, your family's income and assets, and the schools you're interested in attending. Once you finish your application, you’ll receive a Student Aid Report in your email. Review it carefully.
Questions about FAFSA?
Got questions about the FAFSA or need help with the application process? Reach out to your school counselor or visit our Seniors webpage for additional resources and support.
