Apply for Aid

Steps to Apply for Federal Aid: FAFSA

It all starts with the FAFSA.

What is the FAFSA?

FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Students must complete the current-year FAFSA to be considered for federal aid, state aid and more. Apply at: studentaid.gov

Each year, students must complete the current-year FAFSA to be considered for:

• Federal Grants and Loans
• State Aid
• Some Scholarships and Work-Study Programs
• Veterans Benefits

How to Apply – Step-by-Step

1. Create your FSA ID.
   1. Both the student and one contributor (usually a parent) need separate FSA IDs.
   2. If the contributor is married, only one needs to create an FSA ID.
2. Gather documents.
   1. Make sure you have your Social Security number, tax info, and college codes.
3. Start the FAFSA form.
   1. Log in at studentaid.gov.
   2. Select the correct academic year.
4. Complete the “Personal” and “Financial” sections.
   1. Include “Student Personal Circumstances.”
   2. Provide IRS consent.
   3. Fill out “Parent Financials” (if you are a dependent).
5. Sign and submit.
   1. Use your FSA ID to sign online.

Other Ways to Apply

Online: studentaid.gov (Recommended)
FAFSA on the Phone (FOTP): Call 1-800-433-3243
PDF FAFSA: Download, print, and mail from studentaid.gov/forms

Questions?

View out Frequently Asked Questions to get answers to common questions about Financial Aid.

Have more questions? Schedule an appointment to speak with us or call us at (616) 234-4030.