By filling it out, you apply for the U.S. Department of Education's federal
student aid programs, the largest source of student aid in America. In many cases, you're also automatically applying for funds from your state, and your school as well.
Who It's For: See If You're Eligible
You might be eligible if all of these apply to you:
You are a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen
You are a high school graduate or GED holder
You are working toward a degree or certificate in an eligible program
You are not in default on a federal student loan and do not owe money to the government related to other grants or loans
It's recommended that you complete the FAFSA online. More help is available online, and you'll get a response within 3-5 days, rather than 2-3 weeks by mail.
Need More Help? Find online or phone-based help with your FAFSA.
"The best place to start is
Federal Student Aid, by filling out the FAFSA form. Then, if you qualify for grants and loans they will let you know immediately."
Jackson,
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
Before you start, find out what information you need and how to fill out the form. Save time by gathering all the necessary documents and information first. Go to the FAFSA Web site to find out exactly what to do.
You can also use Completing the FAFSA, a detailed tutorial from the U.S. Department of Education. It's available online and in downloadable form.
FAFSA Worksheets: Get a Head Start
The FAFSA Web site has lots of resources to help you:
If you have questions about completing the FAFSA, call the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243), or click the "Live Help" link on the Contact Us page of the FAFSA Web site, then click the "CUSTOMER SERVICE LIVE" button.
FAFSA4Caster: Be Ahead of the Curve
If you are a high school junior or below, use FAFSA4Caster to estimate how much federal assistance you might get. This FREE tool helps you:
