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Free Application for Federal Student Aid

(FAFSA)

What is it?

FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Completing this application allows you to be considered for federal aid money in grants and loans. It also allows you to be considered for need-based scholarships and programs within universities.

When do I complete it?

FAFSA opens on October 1st every year. This is an application that will need to be completed every year that you are in college or plan to be in college. You should complete the application as soon as it opens, since money is given on a first come first serve basis. The priority deadline is March 1st. 

Steps to Complete FAFSA:

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  1. Create an FSA ID

    • It is a unique username and password

    • Required for student and parent (only 1 parent necessary)

    • This will be used for your login and electronic signature 

    • Go to fsaid.ed.gov

  2. Gather Parent’s Income Tax Return Information

    • 2019 Income Tax Return will be used

    • Other useful documents: Parent(s)/Guardian(s) W-2

    • Necessary information: Social Security Numbers, Dates of Birth, Mailing Addresses

  3. Fill out FAFSA Carefully before March 1st

    • Use 2019 Income Tax Return to fill out your FAFSA  

    • Data Retrieval Tool (DRT)

      • Easy transfer of completed tax data oAvailable 

    • Login with your FSA ID at FAFSA.gov

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Remember that FAFSA is not available until October 1st!

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FAFSA can also be tricky and complicated, so please schedule an appointment and email me with any questions and special circumstances.

Types of Aid 

  • Pell Grant: This type of money does NOT need to be paid back, it is free money. Pell grants are given to students with financial need. Students can receive up to $6,345 each year. You must fill out FAFSA to be considered.

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  • Direct Subsidized Loan: This is a loan that does NOT accrue interest while a student is in school. Interest usually starts to accrue after the 6 month grace period once a student graduates college. It has a lower fixed interest rate and has flexible repayment options. You must fill out FAFSA to be considered. 

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  • Direct Unsubsidized Loan: This is a loan that does began to accrue interest while a student is in school. It also has a lower fixed interest rate with flexible repayment options once the student graduates college. You must fill out FAFSA to be considered. 

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  • Parent PLUS Loan: This is a loan that is offered to the parent for their child's schooling. It usually has a higher interest rate. You must fill out FAFSA to be considered, BUT the parent must complete a separate application to apply for this loan and it is based on credit history.

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  • Scholarships: This is a grant or academic award that students apply for. These can be merit, academic, or athletic based. You do not necessarily have to complete FAFSA for these, but most scholarships, especially university need-based require you to. 

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