Your Guide to Completing the FAFSA
1 in 5 students make a HUGE mistake by not filling out the FASFA! If you have no idea how to complete the FASFA or you’re not even sure what it is then please continue reading about why this is such a crucial step in the college process.
“Wait, what’s the FAFSA?”
FASFA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. By submitting this FREE form you can access potential grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and federal student loans.
“When do I fill out the FAFSA?”
The application opens on October 1st of every year. You submit your first application during your senior year of High School and continue to reapply every year you’re in college.
“…So now what?”
You probably have a million follow-up questions, so I put together this resource guide to help you navigate the FASFA. This blog will continue to be updated with FAFSA resources to help you all through the process.
My tip: Don’t overthink the application! It takes at most about 30 minutes to complete straight through and it walks you through every step of the process. If you meet the eligibility requirements for FAFSA you should ALWAYS apply (even if you think you won’t get any scholarship/grants). Students miss out on thousands of dollars by not sending out this free application!
FAFSA Resources:
01. The Official FAFSA website:
Repeat after me: “I WILL NOT PAY TO COMPLETE THE FASFA”
The FAFSA can be completed for free through the official Federal Student Aid Website.
Direct Link to the FREE Application for Federal Student Aid:
Look up individual state deadlines for the FAFSA:
https://studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/fafsa-deadlines
02. NerdWallet Resources:
NerdWallet provides amazing financial advice and resources. One of those being this comprehensive guide to completing the FAFSA!
Access Full Guide here that breaks down common questions and unique circumstances: https://www.nerdwallet.com/l/nerdwallet-guide-to-fafsa
Access the Free FAFSA Checklist Here:
https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/loans/student-loans/fafsa-checklist-documents
Access a Breakdown of FASFA requirements:
https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/loans/student-loans/fafsa-requirements