What is the FAFSA?

The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the form that you must complete in order to apply for federal student aid (this includes loans, grants and work-study programs).

 

Do I need to fill out the FAFSA?

Even if you don’t think you qualify for loans and grants from the federal government, you should still complete the FASFA to see if you qualify for any other types of aid from the colleges to which you have applied (this can include scholarships). This also qualifies you for the HOPE/Zell Miller Scholarship. 

 

A Step-by-Step Guide for Completing the FAFSA:

 

1. Create a FAFSA ID—The FAFSA ID gives you access to the application and allows you to electronically sign your application. Click HERE to create your FAFSA ID. 

 

2. Gather the materials needed to complete the FAFSA:         

• Your social security number and your parents’ social security numbers.

• Driver’s License number, if you have one,

• Federal tax information or tax returns, including W-2 information

• Records of your untaxed income, such as Social Security benefits, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits and veterans

• Information on savings, investments, and business and farm assets for yourself, and for your parents if you are providing parent information.

 

3. Go to www.fafsa.ed.gov to begin the application (available in 2016).

• Click on “Fill out Your FAFSA”

• Choose the 2018-2019 School Year application in the drop-down menu

• Enter the information request (example: name, social security number, etc.) and create a password (this is not the same as your PIN)

• Begin completing the application

 

HELPFUL HINT: Save your FAFSA as you complete each section of the application.

 

4. If you have questions about your FASFA, get online help while completing the FAFSA by clicking on the “HELP” button for a list of help topics or the “LIVE HELP” button to chat with a representative. If you need further help, call 1-800-433-3243.  

 

5. Sign your application.

 

6. Submit your application — Write down the confirmation number that is given to you for your records