FAFSA

FAFSA. Yes, it is a clunky word, but it is so important.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the form they use to assess whether you qualify for federal student loans, grants, as well as some state and college scholarships. There are billions of dollars in aid available. If you want access to those funds, you need to start here.  

Never filed a FAFSA before? Don't worry, we'll walk you through it. 

File your FAFSA

 

Create your FSA ID Today

CREATE YOUR FSA ID

FAFSA Simplification Act

The FAFSA Simplification Act is making significant changes to the processes for determining student aid eligibility. It aims to streamline the FAFSA application and need assessment procedures for federal student aid and expands Federal Pell Grant eligibility. 

Here are some changes you can expect outlined in the FAFSA Simplification Act:  

• The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) will be replaced with the Student Aid Index (SAI). This is a new indicator for determining a student’s eligibility for federal student aid.  
• There will be more federal tax information (FTI) transferred directly from the IRS. 
• Students with an adjusted gross income (AGI) below specified levels will automatically qualify for a maximum Pell Grant and will not need to answer as many questions on the FAFSA.  
• There are no longer limitations of student eligibility due to being convicted of certain drug-related offenses or not registering for the Selective Service.  
• Certain students with unusual circumstances will be able to establish independent status and not supply parental information on the FAFSA. 

Prepare to file your FAFSA: 

• Do you have a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID? If not, create one now. 
  • What is an FSA ID? This ID is a username and password you use to log into U.S. Department of Education online systems. You use this ID every year you fill out a FAFSA and through the lifetime of your federal student loans. 
  • When should I create my FSA ID? You should create your FSA ID at least 7 days before completing your FAFSA.   
  • Who needs an FSA ID?  Anyone who will contribute to your FAFSA will need their own FSA ID.  This could include your parent, stepparent, or spouse. 
• Are your parents divorced or separated? Starting with the 2024-2025 FAFSA, the parent who provides the greater portion of your financial support will have to report their income on your FASFA application.
  • For the 2023-2024 FAFSA, the parent who you lived with the most is required to report their income. 
• Make sure any person who would report income on your FASFA has filed a 2022 income tax return if they were required to do so. The U.S. Department of Education will obtain your tax information, as well as that of your parent(s), directly from the IRS.  

FAFSA FAQs

Tuition and fees are due to the Business Office approximately two weeks before each semester begins. Keep in mind that financial aid can be a long process. If your financial aid has not been processed by the tuition due date, you will need to make payment arrangements with the Business Office or sign up for the college's payment plan.

Still have questions? Reach out.

We’re available to help you navigate the financial aid process, find scholarship and grant opportunities, and supply a range of payment options.  Contact the financial aid office at the campus you are attending.