FAFSA
The form students must complete each year to determine eligibility for federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, federal student loans, work-study, and many institutional scholarships.
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Frequently asked questions about FAFSA
What is FAFSA?+
FAFSA stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It's a form students fill out each year to see if they can get money to help pay for college. This money can come from the government or from the schools themselves. It helps make college more affordable for many.
Who can get federal student aid?+
Most U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens can apply for federal student aid through FAFSA. Eligibility also depends on your family's income and how many people are in your household. You need to be accepted into an eligible education program too. Special rules apply if you're a veteran or active-duty military.
How do I fill out the FAFSA?+
You can fill out the FAFSA online on the official student aid website. You will need information like your Social Security number, tax returns, and bank statements. It's important to complete it each year because the aid amounts can change. Deadlines vary, so check early.
What kind of financial aid can I get from FAFSA?+
The FAFSA can help you get different types of aid. This includes Pell Grants, which you don't have to pay back. It also covers federal student loans, work-study programs where you earn money while studying, and some school-specific scholarships. It's a key step to getting help paying for school.