FAFSA Information

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The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) must be completed by students applying for state, federal, and institutional financial aid. Even if you don't think you'll qualify for need-based financial aid, you should still complete the FAFSA to be eligible for student loans. The FAFSA can be completed online at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa after October 1st of the year prior to your college start date. Here are the steps your students/families should take when preparing to submit the FAFSA.

Find out the FAFSA priority deadline for your college(s).

Financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Therefore, it is crucial for you to submit your FAFSA in a timely manner. Although priority deadlines do not affect a student's eligibility for federal student loans, if you don't file early, you may miss out on possible aid opportunities such as money awarded directly from the institution.

Register with Selective Service.

If you are male and at least 18 years old, you must register with Selective Service before you can submit the FAFSA.

Complete FAFSA on the Web Worksheet.

If you are filing the FAFSA online, be sure to complete the FAFSA on the Web Worksheet so you can organize your information. This worksheet allows you to read and complete the questions before entering your information online. The questions are listed in the same order as they appear on the website.

Gather required forms.

You will need the following information when you fill out the FAFSA:

• Student's driver's license and Social Security card
• Income tax returns from the prior-prior year
• W-2 forms and other records of money earned
• Current bank statements
• Records and documentation of other untaxed income received such as welfare benefits, Social Security income, veteran's benefits, AFDC, or military or clergy allowances
• Records of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other investments
• Current mortgage information
• Business or farm records (if applicable)