FAFSA 101: Unlocking Financial Aid for College Success

If you’re planning for college, one of the most important steps you’ll take is completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Many students and families skip it because they assume they “won’t qualify,” but the truth is: everyone should apply. FAFSA is your gateway to grants, scholarships, work-study, and low-interest loans that make higher education affordable.

What Is FAFSA?

The FAFSA is a free application that determines how much financial aid you’re eligible to receive for college. It’s used by:

• The federal government (for Pell Grants, work-study, and loans)

• Your state (for local grants and scholarships)

• Your college (for institutional scholarships and aid packages)

In short: FAFSA is the key to unlocking money for school.

Important Dates

• The FAFSA typically opens in October for the following academic year (though this year’s new form opened in December 2023 due to updates).

• Deadlines vary by state and college, but federal deadlines are usually in June.

• Pro tip: Apply as early as possible—some aid is first-come, first-served!

What You’ll Need to Apply

Before starting, gather these documents:

• Social Security number (or Alien Registration number for eligible non-citizens)

• Federal tax returns (yours and/or your parents’)

• W-2 forms or records of income

• Bank statements and investment records

• FSA ID (a login for both the student and parent)

Having these ready makes the process smoother and faster.

Why FAFSA Matters

Even if you think you won’t qualify for much, filling out FAFSA can still open doors:

• Federal Pell Grants (free money you don’t repay)

• Work-study jobs on campus

• State or college-specific scholarships tied to FAFSA completion

• Low-interest student loans that are safer than private loans

Skipping FAFSA means potentially leaving thousands of dollars on the table.

Tips for Success

• Apply early: More aid is available at the start.

• Double-check info: Mistakes can delay your application.

• List multiple schools: Even if you’re unsure where you’ll attend, list them so they receive your FAFSA info.

• Reapply every year: FAFSA isn’t a one-time form—you must submit it annually.

SUCCESS-ID TIP 💬Block out 1 hour this week to start your FAFSA. Even if you’re unsure about college plans, completing the form keeps your options open and could save you thousands in the future.

Start here 🔗: https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa