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Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

applying for collegeThe completion of a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required if you want to be considered for any type of federal aid and many state financial assistance programs. You can complete this form online at www.fafsa.ed.gov or obtain a paper copy by calling 1-800-4-FED-AID. Most high school guidance departments or college financial aid offices also can supply you with a FAFSA.

Be Aware of Deadlines!

You are encouraged to complete a FAFSA as early as possible. For students applying to college for the 2008– 2009 school year, the FAFSA application period begins on January 1, 2008. Since many colleges and states require the completion of a FAFSA for their financial aid programs, check with each of the schools to which you are applying for information on their application requirements and deadlines. Some institutions grant aid on a first come, first-served basis, so it is important for you to get all required information completed as early as possible.

FAFSA Online

If you have access to the Internet, you should consider completing the FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Not only is the online version user-friendly, it also shortens the processing time. You can do the entire process electronically if you and your parents apply for a Personal Identification Number (PIN) at www.pin.ed.gov. Your PIN is used as an electronic signature (e-sign) and can be used each year you apply for financial aid. You will also be able to use your PIN to e-sign your student loans. Another important feature of your PIN is that it allows you to gain access to the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS), to make inquiries regarding your federal loans and grants. By accessing NSLDS, you can check the outstanding balance on your grants and loans, as well as their status and disbursement information.

Be Prepared

Before you begin, make sure you have the following information:

  • Your Social Security number, and if you are a dependent student, the Social Security number(s) of your parent(s);
  • Your driver's license (if any);
  • Your W-2 Forms and other records of money earned;
  • Your (and your spouse's, if you are married) most recent Federal Income Tax Return;
  • If you are a dependent student, your parent's most recent Federal Income Tax Return;
  • Your most recent untaxed income records - Social Security, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, welfare, or veterans benefits records;
  • Your bank statements;
  • Your business and investment mortgage information, business and farm
    records, stocks, bonds, and other investment records;
  • Your alien registration card (if you are not a U.S. citizen).

Click here to view FAFSA Tip Sheets.