The FAFSA is the only application available for students who wish to be considered for federal financial aid, which includes grants, work-study funds, and student loans. However, some states and schools also use the information from the FAFSA to determine if students are eligible for state or local grants, scholarships and other loans.
The FAFSA opens on October 1st every year for the following academic year. I.e. If you will begin college in Fall 2027, then the application will open on October 1st, 2026 for the school year 2027-2028. Always check deadlines, especially your state and school deadlines as they have different deadlines for other available aid.
Most people only take 30 minutes to complete the FAFSA and you must submit an application every year that you wish to be considered for aid. AND REMEMBER: The FAFSA is FREE! If a website asks for money to fill it out, you are not dealing with the official FAFSA site and it may be a scam!
I’m Considering Obtaining a Higher Education
Create an Account at Studentaid.gov
You should begin by creating an account at studentaid.gov. If you are a dependent student, then every contributor required to provide information on the FAFSA form will also require a Studentaid.gov account.
Complete the FAFSA Application
Complete the FAFSA Application and ensure that all contributors also sign the FAFSA. Make sure all parties agree to the automatic IRS transmission of data or your application will be automatically denied! Ready to start the FAFSA application? Click HERE.
Preparing for College Checklists
High School Junior Checklist
High School Senior Checklist
Adult Student Checklist
Grad School Checklist
I’m Currently Pursuing a Higher Education
- Remember to submit your FAFSA every year that you wish to be considered for aid.
- Before you receive a Direct Loan, you will need to complete counseling and sign a Master Promissory Note (MPN).
- Use the Loan Simulator to understand how student loan payments could fit into your future budget and lifestyle.
- Find out how much student loan debt you have by visiting Studentaid.gov (you will be redirected to sign in to your studentaid.gov account)
If You Have Completed the FAFSA:
Applying for the FAFSA
Visit Studentaid.gov
Stay Safe: Avoid Financial Aid Scams
When seeking help with your student loans or financial aid, always make sure you're getting information from trusted, official sources. Scammers often create fake websites or send emails that look legitimate to trick borrowers into sharing personal information or paying for free services.
Be cautious if:
You're asked to pay for help with FAFSA or loan forgiveness.
You receive unsolicited calls or messages promising quick debt relief.
The website doesn't use a .gov or .edu domain.
Still Have Questions?
Check out the Frequently Asked Questions about the FAFSA or contact the Student Loan Ombudsman directly Here.