Guide to the FAFSA Form: Application Steps & Requirements for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Every year, financial aid officers at colleges and universities persuade students to submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Yet FAFSA completion rates continue to go down. Sixty-eight percent of students submitted their FAFSA forms for the school year 2020-2021—a decline from 71% in the previous year and 77% two years earlier (Sallie Mae, 2021).

The question now is, why did students and their families not complete FAFSA? The reasons are varied—44% of families said they believed they would not qualify for any financial aid, making this the top reason for not even applying. Meanwhile, 34% said they missed the deadline, found filling out the form too complicated, or did not have the required information.

To help address these problems, this guide to the FAFSA will provide an overview of the application as well as a detailed, step-by-step discussion on how you can complete your FAFSA form. It will also cover other relevant information, such as FAFSA requirements, deadlines, where to file, and tips on how to go about your application.

Guide to the FAFSA Table of Contents

1. What is FAFSA?
2. Why is FAFSA important?
3. How does FAFSA work?
4. FAFSA Qualifications
5. Exploring Additional Financial Aid Opportunities
6. Can Accelerated Degree Programs Help Lower Your Educational Expenses?
7. How can I enhance my overall financial aid strategy?
8. Important FAFSA Application Information
9. What are the common challenges in completing the FAFSA form?
10. Are Student Loans a Viable Option for Covering Housing Expenses?
11. What are the common FAFSA mistakes to avoid?
12. What supplemental funding options are available if FAFSA aid falls short?
13. Could a fast track master's degree online help reduce your educational costs and debt?
14. How can I effectively compare financial aid offers?
15. How Can I Access the Lowest Interest Student Loans for Additional Support?
16. Which Degree Programs Offer the Best Financial Return?
17. How Can an Accelerated Program Reduce Educational Costs?
18. The Impact of Submitting Your FAFSA 

What is FAFSA?

FAFSA stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Students submit this form if they want to apply for financial aid for college or graduate school. Every year, the average federal grant amount a student receives is $5, 179 (Hanson, 2021). Whether you want to apply for financial aid from the federal government, state governments, or most higher education institutions, you will need to accomplish the FAFSA application.

According to the FAFSA definition economics experts agree on, the federal government uses the FAFSA form to assess the eligibility of a student for different types of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, student loans, and even federal work-study opportunities. Unfortunately, 85% of college students are not aware of this potential benefit. FAFSA is also used to determine the expected family contribution (EFC) in a student’s financial aid package. The EFC is the amount of money the government thinks a student’s family could reasonably set aside for one academic year.

As the name indicates, completing the form is absolutely free. You should stay away from any websites, offices, or individuals asking for payment in exchange for help with FAFSA form completion.

Why is FAFSA important?

Accomplishing the FAFSA can help families lower the cost of college education, making it important for incoming higher education students. By filling out this form, a student can increase his or her chances of receiving financial aid since it is used to determine the eligibility for scholarships and grants—money that does not need to be paid back.

Unfortunately, many families do not apply for scholarships and grants because of misconceptions. For example, 44% of students did not apply for scholarships and grants because they did not think they would win. Another 28% said they did not have the time and 20% said it was too much effort to complete applications (Sallie Mae, 2021).

FAFSA is also important because it is one of the greatest predictors of whether a high school senior will move on to college. Studies show that there is a strong correlation between FAFSA completion and enrollment in postsecondary education. Seniors who complete the FAFSA are 84% more likely to enroll in college. On the other hand, among students from the lowest socioeconomic bracket, FAFSA filing is associated with a 127% increase in immediate enrollment to college (NCAN, 2021)

How Does FAFSA Work?

Student loan statistics show that student loan debt in the United States has reached almost $1.6 trillion and trends show no sign of it decreasing.

Unfortunately, a ballooning student loan debt negatively impacts the quality of life as stated by authors James Kvaal and Jessica Thompson in their study “Rising Student Debt and the 2020 Election." The research states, “Student debt can be burdensome. While the economic benefits of college often accrue over time, loan payments begin six months after the student leaves school. Research shows that student debt can reduce rates of homeownership, affect career choices, and even delay decisions to start a family."

But there is free money out there for college. In fact, 56% of families used scholarships, and these covered 16% of education costs in AY 202021 (Sallie Mae, 2021). Filing the FAFSA is how you can open the door to scholarships.

You can fill out the FAFSA form using a computer. Alternatively, you can download the FAFSA app (make sure you’re not searching for the FASFA app) via the myStudentAid app, which is available on both Google Play and the App Store. You can also complete the FAFSA PDF form, which you then need to print out and mail to the address listed on the form. However, most people use the online method since online forms also get processed faster.

Here are the steps to completing the FAFSA form. It usually takes less than an hour to finish if you have all your information ready.

Step 1: Prepare the required documents

What is a FAFSA form? The FAFSA form asks for basic personal information and details about your FAFSA qualifications income. What income qualifies for FAFSA should not really be a concern since there is no maximum income to qualify for aid. There is, however, an earnings cap that qualifies a student for a zero-dollar EFC. For AY 2022-2023, for instance, if a dependent student’s family has a combined income of $27,000 or less, their EFC would be zero.

Here are some of the FAFSA application requirements. Note that some might not be applicable to all applicants. If you are a dependent, your parents also need to have their personal and financial information ready.

• Driver’s license
• Social Security number
• Alien registration number
• Federal tax information or tax returns
• Records of untaxed income
• Cash, savings, and checking account balances
• Investments other than the home in which you live
• List of schools the student would like to attend

Important note: If you do not have all your documents ready yet, you can still start filling out the FAFSA form. You can always start, save the form, and go back to it later when you have the rest of the information on hand, such as when is college application deadline coming.

Step 2: Generate an FSA ID

Students, parents, and borrowers need to create an account with the Federal Student Aid office and generate their FSA ID to transact and complete tasks related to their financial aid applications. An FSA ID is used for filling out the FAFSA form on a computer and on the mobile app. It is also used for other activities, such as applying for repayment plans, completing loan counseling, signing the Master Promissory Note (MPN), and using the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Help Tool.

The requirements for creating an FSA ID are:

• Social Security number
• Email address or phone number

Important note: Parents and students should generate their own specific FSA IDs. Applicants are not allowed to use someone else’s ID for their transactions. Parents who do not have a Social Security number will not be able to create an FSA ID. If this is the case, the student can simply input zeros where the form asks for the parent’s Social Security number then select the option to print a signature page at the end of the form.

Step 3: Fill out the FAFSA form

Once you have your FSA ID, you can start filling out the FAFSA form. Select “Start Here" on the fafsa.org website if you are filling out the form for the first time. If you are on the mobile app, select “FAFSA form" on the dashboard, select your role, and then select the “Start a New FAFSA Form" button.

What is the “Save Key"? 

You might be wondering how to save FAFSA form applications or documents. Whether you want to complete a FAFSA form online or on the mobile app, use the Save Key to save what you have done. There are also questions on how to continue FAFSA application forms and how to resume FAFSA form progress. You can do the same thing so you can resume FAFSA application forms at a later time in case you do not finish filling it out in one session. Does FAFSA save automatically? No, so you have to create your save key near the beginning of the FAFSA application.

What to Do for FAFSA Renewal

For FAFSA renewal, go to the fafsa.org site and select “Log In." When options appear, select “I am the student, and want to access the FAFSA form." Then enter your FSA ID and select “FAFSA renewal" in the options. When completing the form for renewal, many sections will be automatically filled for you both on the website and mobile app. Make sure to update the parts/information that has changed since the previous year.

Important note: Only a student can start a FAFSA renewal. Dependent students that need assistance from their parents in accomplishing the renewal can start the process using their FSA ID and then share their save key details with their parents so they can access the FAFSA form.

Sections on the FAFSA Form

The FAFSA form has five major sections. Read the instructions carefully and make sure the information you write is accurate. 

• Student Demographics. Includes personal information of the student such as name, date of birth, social security number, home address, phone number, and citizenship.
• School Selection. You must list at least one school in this section. You can list up to 10 schools online and four schools on the pdf form. The schools on your list will use your FAFSA details to assess what types of aid and the amount you can receive.
• Dependency status. You will answer a series of questions that will determine whether you are a dependent or independent student. If you are a dependent student, you will need to include parent information as well as your personal information.
• Parent Demographics. This is for dependent students. Parents or guardians will fill out this section.
• Financial Information. You will enter financial information such as federal tax returns and W-2 documentation.

Once you have a complete FAFSA form, you will need to place your signature on the form and wait for a confirmation message that your FAFSA form has been successfully completed. 

Filling out the FAFSA can be intimidating but it is also a way to combat rising student loans. Among students who did not file FAFSA, 32% thought that they might not be eligible for financial aid, while 28% did not want to take on debt. Another 23% did not have information on FAFSA and 9% thought the FAFSA forms were too much work (NCES, 2019). But you can definitely make the application process run smoothly if you prepare your documents beforehand and complete your form way ahead of the FAFSA deadline.

Exploring Additional Financial Aid Opportunities

While FAFSA is vital for unlocking federal aid, it may not cover all the costs of higher education for many students. Exploring additional financial aid opportunities can significantly alleviate the financial burden associated with college expenses. Beyond federal funding, private student loans are another option for students who need supplemental financial assistance. These loans are often offered by private lenders such as banks, credit unions, and online financial institutions.

Private student loans fill the gap that exists between the cost of attendance and the total financial aid a student might receive from FAFSA. However, it’s crucial to thoroughly compare offers from different lenders to ensure you secure favorable terms. Researching the best options is key, and students looking for reputable institutions with competitive rates can refer to this comprehensive guide on the best banks that give student loans. This resource provides detailed information to help identify lenders that align with individual financial goals and repayment capabilities.

Apart from loans, many colleges and private organizations offer merit-based scholarships and grants. Unlike loans, these do not require repayment and can significantly lower your educational costs. Actively seeking out such scholarships, beginning with your school’s financial aid office or external platforms, can be a fruitful endeavor. For students aiming to avoid heavy borrowing, these options provide an effective supplement to FAFSA-derived aid.

Lastly, state-based aid programs often provide additional forms of assistance. Different states may have scholarships, grants, or tuition assistance programs based on factors such as residency, academic performance, or field of study. Be sure to research your state’s higher education resources and meet their corresponding deadlines for these opportunities. Consulting with your financial aid office can further help identify applicable state-specific programs tailored to your circumstances.

FAFSA Qualifications

You will be happy to know that the percentage of first-time, full-time degree/certificate-seeking undergraduate students who were awarded some form of financial aid in AY 2018-2019 was 86%. So, it is worth submitting your FAFSA because there is a high percentage of students who actually receive aid (NCES, 2021). 

There are basic requirements to be eligible for financial aid. But as you can imagine, students have different personal and family circumstances; thus there will be specific requirements you might need to meet to qualify for aid. 

Basic Eligibility Requirements for Student Aid:

• Demonstrated financial need
• U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens
• Enrolled in an eligible degree or certificate program
• Has a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate
• Has a valid Social Security number (students from the Federated States of Micronesia, Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau are excluded)
• Registered with Selective Service (if you are a male, you must register between the ages of 18 and 25)
• Sign certifying statements on the FAFSA form stating that you are not in default on a federal student loan,you do not owe money on a federal student grantyou will use the student aid only for education purposes
• you are not in default on a federal student loan,
• you do not owe money on a federal student grant
• you will use the student aid only for education purposes

Non-U.S. citizens, students with criminal convictions, and those with intellectual disabilities must meet additional eligibility requirements. Also, undocumented immigrant students are not eligible for federal student aid. 

As for students who think they will not get aid because their parents earn a good income, they can still apply for merit-based scholarships and loans. You can refer to the fafsa.org website for details on special requirements if you fall in any of the student categories above. 

Can Accelerated Degree Programs Help Lower Your Educational Expenses?

Students seeking cost-effective alternatives may consider accelerated degree programs as a strategic way to minimize overall educational expenses. Accelerated programs offer a condensed curriculum that enables timely degree completion, thereby reducing tuition fees and associated costs such as housing and materials. Evaluating options like 1 year associate degree programs can provide insights into programs that align with your career goals while shortening the learning period. Assess program accreditation, curriculum structure, and post-completion outcomes to ensure the accelerated pathway meets both academic and financial expectations.

How can I enhance my overall financial aid strategy?

Developing a comprehensive financial aid strategy involves assessing your total educational expenses, evaluating available federal, state, and institutional aid, and planning for potential financial shortfalls. Analyze your current financial situation and anticipated costs to tailor your approach, including exploring scholarship opportunities and negotiating award letters when appropriate. Consider reviewing academic programs that offer accelerated pathways to reduce overall expenses, such as the easiest graduation degree, which may align with your budget and career goals. Integrate cost-saving measures and maintain regular communication with your financial aid office to stay updated on new funding opportunities and adjusted eligibility criteria.

Important FAFSA Application Information

The key to successfully completing your FAFSA is to remember important dates for the application since 34% of students miss the FAFSA deadline (Sallie Mae, 2021). You can start completing FAFSA forms on October 1st of every year. The FAFSA deadline for AY 2022-2023 is 11:59 p.m. CT on June 30, 2023. Any corrections or updates must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on Sept. 10, 2023.

Moreover, schools and states have their own FAFSA deadlines. So, you need to contact the college or university you wish to attend. For state deadlines, you can check the fafsa.org list. 

What happens after you submit your FAFSA form? 

The great thing about completing your FAFSA form online is that you can immediately check whether it went through or not. If you submit the paper form, you can check its processing status only after seven to 10 days from the date it was mailed. 

Your application will be one of the following:

• Processing. You might need to wait three to five days before the application will be made available to the schools you listed.
• Processed Successfully. Your application went through successfully. No further action is needed.
• Missing Signatures. There are missing signatures on your application.
• Action Required. You will need to contact your school to resolve the issue.

What is SAR? 

Within a few days after successful completion of your FAFSA, you will receive your Student Aid Report (SAR). You will be notified by email or you can access your SAR online via fafsa.org by logging in and using your FSA ID. 

The SAR contains the summary of the information you entered in the FAFSA form. You should check this form and make sure all information is correct. Your SAR will also contain your EFC. The schools you listed on your form will receive your FAFSA information and determine how much aid you can get. 

What are the common challenges in completing the FAFSA form?

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form is crucial for accessing financial aid, yet many students and families face challenges during the process. Understanding these difficulties and how to address them can streamline your application experience.

• Gathering Required Documents: Many applicants struggle to collect necessary documents like Social Security numbers, tax returns, and financial statements. Create a checklist of required documents and gather them before starting the application.
• Understanding Financial Terminology: FAFSA includes terms like "Expected Family Contribution (EFC)" and "Adjusted Gross Income," which may confuse applicants. Refer to the glossary on the FAFSA website or consult a financial aid advisor for clarification.
• Errors in Reporting Information: Mistakes in entering Social Security numbers, income figures, or school codes can delay processing. Double-check all entries and use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to autofill accurate tax information.
• Meeting Deadlines: FAFSA deadlines vary by federal, state, and institutional guidelines, making it easy to miss key dates. Mark important deadlines on a calendar and aim to submit the application as early as October 1.
• Selecting the Right Schools: Applicants can list up to 10 schools, but uncertainty about choices may lead to incomplete applications. Research schools early and list all potential options to ensure financial aid consideration.

For detailed guidance on financial aid options and managing loan types, explore our comprehensive guide on fixed interest rate student loans. Addressing these challenges early will maximize your chances of securing aid.

Are Student Loans a Viable Option for Covering Housing Expenses?

Evaluating whether to use student loans for housing requires a critical review of both immediate needs and long-term financial implications. Though federal student loans primarily target tuition and academic expenses, some borrowers may allocate a portion of their funds to cover living costs, including rent. It is essential to weigh the opportunity cost of increasing your debt load against the flexibility of exploring alternative housing financial supports. For a focused analysis on this aspect, consider if can student loans pay for housing aligns with your overall financial strategy. Review interest accrual, repayment schedules, and how additional borrowing may affect future credit and earnings stability before committing to this option.

What are the common FAFSA mistakes to avoid?

Completing the FAFSA form is essential for students seeking financial aid, but even small errors can delay the process or reduce the amount of aid received. Here are some common mistakes students should avoid:

• Missing the FAFSA Deadline:
  • Each year, FAFSA forms become available on October 1st, and the deadline is usually June 30th of the following year. However, many states and colleges have earlier deadlines for priority financial aid consideration.
  • Make sure to submit your FAFSA as early as possible to maximize your chances of receiving aid. Check state and college-specific deadlines to ensure you don't miss out on additional aid opportunities.
• Providing Incorrect Personal Information:
  • Errors in personal details such as Social Security number, name, or date of birth can cause delays or processing issues. Always double-check these details to ensure accuracy.
  • Make sure the name you use matches exactly what is on your Social Security card.
• Not Using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (DRT):
  • The IRS DRT allows you to transfer tax information directly into your FAFSA form. Not using it can increase the chances of errors when manually entering tax information.
  • Utilizing this tool can also speed up the verification process if your application is selected for review.
• Leaving Fields Blank Instead of Using '0' or 'N/A':
  • If a question does not apply to you, fill it in with a '0' or 'N/A' instead of leaving it blank. This ensures your form is considered complete.
• Reporting Incorrect Income Information:
  • Some students mistakenly report their income or their parents' income incorrectly by including untaxed income or misreporting investment values.
  • Be sure to differentiate between parent and student income and report the appropriate amounts.
• Forgetting to List All Schools You're Interested In:
  • The FAFSA allows you to list up to 10 colleges or universities. Even if you are unsure about attending a particular school, include it to ensure your financial aid information is sent there.
  • This increases your chances of receiving financial aid packages from multiple institutions.
• Failing to Sign the FAFSA Form:
  • The FAFSA form is not complete until both the student and, if applicable, the parent sign it using their FSA IDs. Forgetting to sign will delay the processing of your application.
  • Make sure to electronically sign before submitting.
• Not Correcting Errors on the Student Aid Report (SAR):
  • After submitting your FAFSA, you will receive a SAR, which summarizes your information. Review it carefully for any errors or inaccuracies and make corrections if needed.
  • Corrections can be made online by logging into your FAFSA account.

What supplemental funding options are available if FAFSA aid falls short?

When federal aid does not fully cover your educational expenses, a variety of supplemental funding sources can bridge the gap. Students may consider state-specific grants and college-sponsored scholarships that complement FAFSA awards. Additionally, to manage tuition shortfalls and other costs, explore flexible private loan options. For example, some lenders offer no credit check student loans that cater to applicants with non-traditional credit profiles. Evaluating these alternatives based on interest rates, repayment terms, and eligibility criteria can help create a balanced financial aid package tailored to your unique circumstances.

Could a fast track master's degree online help reduce your educational costs and debt?

Graduate education pathways can offer accelerated routes to high-earning positions while minimizing time and tuition expenses. A fast track master's degree online is designed with a condensed curriculum that shortens the period of study, thereby reducing tuition fees, living expenses, and the total duration of credit accrual. When considering this option, it is essential to evaluate program accreditation, curriculum structure, and post-graduation success metrics. Utilizing a fast track master's degree online pathway may strengthen your overall financial strategy by minimizing the burden of extended student loans and allowing for a quicker re-entry into the workforce.

How can I effectively compare financial aid offers?

When assessing financial aid packages, consider the total cost of attendance, grant and scholarship amounts, work-study opportunities, and loan terms side by side. Evaluate the net price by subtracting non-repayable aid from the sticker cost, and review any institutional adjustments that may affect your final award. Analyze factors such as enrollment fees, repayment options, and the flexibility of deferral or forbearance policies. For a thorough institutional review, research the overall reputation and accreditation of the provider, including insights from good online schools to benchmark financial offerings against quality education standards.

How Can I Access the Lowest Interest Student Loans for Additional Support?

To supplement aid when federal and institutional options fall short, it is critical to evaluate private loan opportunities with competitive terms. Compare offers based on interest types, repayment flexibility, and eligibility criteria while considering how each aligns with your overall financial strategy. It is advisable to review eligibility details, assess fixed versus variable rates, and understand any penalties for early repayment. For a comprehensive comparison of private lending alternatives, consider options such as the lowest interest student loans. This approach will help ensure that any additional borrowing contributes effectively to managing overall educational expenses.

Which Degree Programs Offer the Best Financial Return?

To maximize the value of your education investment, it is essential to evaluate the long-term financial prospects of different degree programs. Consider current job market trends, salary projections, and industry growth when selecting a course of study. Our research on what degrees make the most money can provide insight into fields with high earning potential. This analysis supports aligning your financial aid planning with a degree path that offers a strong return on investment while ensuring that educational costs and future earnings are balanced effectively.

How Can an Accelerated Program Reduce Educational Costs?

Accelerated programs condense coursework into a shorter period, which can lead to reduced tuition fees, lower living expenses, and minimized opportunity costs. This streamlined approach suits students aiming to lessen debt accumulation and expedite their entry into the workforce. By selecting programs that balance a robust curriculum with an efficient timeline, you can further strengthen your overall financial strategy. For instance, opting for an accelerated online bachelor's degree may enable you to reap long-term benefits by decreasing the duration of your investment in higher education.

The Impact of Submitting Your FAFSA

Taking the time to understand and complete the FAFSA form sets the groundwork for receiving not only federal student aid but also other available financial aid from your state or college. It is a way to get access to free college money, especially if you do not want to take a loan and spend an average of 10-30 years paying for student debt. But most financial aid is “first-come, first-serve" so that is why it is important to prepare early and submit your form as early as possible. This will help you avoid any delays that can reduce the amount of financial help you can get. 

Moreover, aside from the FAFSA form, some schools might require other forms from students applying for scholarships or grants. The best way to know this is to get in touch with the financial aid office of the schools you would like to attend and confirm if you need to accomplish additional forms.  

As the demand for higher education continues to increase, so does the price tag on college tuition. Remember that you have options to lower the cost of getting a degree. All you need is to follow the steps in this guide to the FAFSA and ask for help if you do not understand some questions in the form. You can also contact the FAFSA help center at 1-800-433-3243. There is also a self-serve virtual chat assistant on the FAFSA website where you can get quick answers to frequently asked questions about filling out the form. 

Key Insights

• Decline in FAFSA Completion Rates: FAFSA completion rates have been decreasing, with only 68% of students submitting their forms for the 2020-2021 school year, down from 71% the previous year and 77% two years earlier.
• Misconceptions About Eligibility: Many families do not complete the FAFSA because they believe they will not qualify for financial aid. This misconception is held by 44% of families who did not apply.
• Importance of FAFSA: Completing the FAFSA is crucial for determining eligibility for various forms of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, student loans, and federal work-study opportunities.
• High Impact on Enrollment: FAFSA completion significantly impacts college enrollment, especially among students from low socioeconomic backgrounds, increasing their likelihood of attending college by 127%.
• Common Barriers: The most common reasons for not completing the FAFSA include belief in ineligibility, missing the deadline, finding the form too complicated, and lacking required information.
• Broad Eligibility: The FAFSA has broad eligibility criteria, making many students eligible for aid despite misconceptions about income levels.
• Financial Aid and Debt: Properly utilizing the FAFSA can help mitigate student loan debt, which is a significant burden for many students, impacting their financial and personal decisions after graduation.

FAQ

1. What is FAFSA? FAFSA stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is a form that students fill out to apply for financial aid for college or graduate school. The FAFSA is used to determine a student's eligibility for scholarships, grants, student loans, and federal work-study opportunities.
2. Why is FAFSA important? FAFSA is important because it helps families lower the cost of college education. By completing the FAFSA, students increase their chances of receiving financial aid, which can include money that does not need to be paid back, such as scholarships and grants. Additionally, FAFSA completion is strongly correlated with higher rates of college enrollment.
3. How does FAFSA work? FAFSA works by collecting personal and financial information from students and their families. This information is used to assess eligibility for different types of financial aid. The form can be filled out online, via a mobile app, or by printing and mailing a PDF form. Once submitted, the information is processed, and a Student Aid Report (SAR) is generated, detailing the expected family contribution (EFC) and eligibility for aid.
4. What are the qualifications for FAFSA? Basic eligibility requirements for FAFSA include demonstrated financial need, U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen status, enrollment in an eligible degree or certificate program, possession of a high school diploma or GED, a valid Social Security number, and registration with Selective Service for males aged 18-25. Additional requirements apply for non-U.S. citizens, students with criminal convictions, and those with intellectual disabilities.
5. What are some common reasons students do not complete the FAFSA? Common reasons for not completing the FAFSA include the belief that they will not qualify for financial aid, missing the deadline, finding the form too complicated, and not having the required information. Misconceptions about eligibility, especially regarding family income levels, also contribute to lower completion rates.
6. What is the impact of submitting the FAFSA? Submitting the FAFSA opens the door to various forms of financial aid, including federal and state aid, as well as scholarships and grants from colleges. Completing the FAFSA early increases the likelihood of receiving aid, as many programs operate on a first-come, first-served basis. This can significantly reduce the need for student loans and the associated long-term debt.
7. What should students do if they do not have all the required documents for FAFSA? Students can start filling out the FAFSA form even if they do not have all the required documents. They can save their progress using the Save Key feature and return to complete the form later once they have gathered all necessary information.
8. How can students renew their FAFSA application? To renew the FAFSA application, students should log in to the fafsa.org website using their FSA ID, select "FAFSA renewal," and update any information that has changed since the previous year. Dependent students can start the renewal process and share their Save Key details with their parents for assistance.
9. What happens after submitting the FAFSA form? After submitting the FAFSA form, students will receive a confirmation and their application status will be updated. They will also receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) summarizing their information and providing their Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Schools listed on the FAFSA form will use this information to determine the amount and types of financial aid the student is eligible to receive.
10. What are some tips for successfully completing the FAFSA?

Tips for successfully completing the FAFSA include preparing all required documents in advance, creating an FSA ID for both the student and parent, starting the application early to avoid missing deadlines, using the Save Key feature to save progress, and reviewing the Student Aid Report (SAR) for accuracy after submission. Additionally, students should contact the financial aid office of their chosen schools to confirm if any additional forms are required.

References: 

• Hanson, M. (2021). Average Cost of College and Tuition. Education Data Initiative. Retrieved from https://educationdata.org/average-cost-of-college
• Kvaal, J. & Thompson, J. (2020). Rising Student Debt and the 2020 Election. The Carsey School of Public Policy at the Scholars’ Repository. Retrieved from https://dx.doi.org/10.34051/p/2020.376
• NCAN (2021). National FAFSA Completion Rates for High School Seniors and Graduates. Retrieved from https://www.ncan.org/page/NationalFAFSACompletionRatesforHighSchoolSeniorsandGraduates
• NCES (2019). Why Didn’t Students Complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)? A Detailed Look. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/pubs2018/2018061.pdf
• NCES (2021). Financial Aid. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=31
• Sallie Mae (2021). 2021 How America Pays for College. Retrieved from https://www.salliemae.com/content/dam/slm/writtencontent/Research/HowAmericaPaysforCollege2021.pdf
• Studentaid.gov (n.d.). Types of Aid. Retrieved from https://studentaid.gov/resources/types-infographic-accessible