Applying for and submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is free and connects you to the largest source of financial aid for college. You must submit your FAFSA by the deadline to be considered for federal student aid. States and colleges also use FAFSA information to award their own aid packages.
The FAFSA deadline for the 2024-25 school year is June 30, 2025. Many states use the FAFSA for their financial aid programs. Check individual state deadlines to ensure you apply on time.
To begin, you’ll need to create an account and get a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID. You can use your FSA ID immediately to sign and submit your first FAFSA. However, to use your FSA ID for any other purpose, you’ll need to wait up to three days for your information to be confirmed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). If you already have an account, log in to FAFSA with your FSA ID.
Before filling out the FAFSA, gather the necessary information to ensure a smooth application process. Having all the required information ready will help you complete the application quickly and accurately. Once prepared, you can begin filling out the FAFSA application online.
Important Note: Be wary of financial aid scams. You don’t need to hire a company to help you find financial aid. Instead, search for scholarships online or ask your school guidance counselor for assistance. Learn what questions to ask before paying for financial aid services to avoid scams.
To be eligible for federal student aid, you must meet basic eligibility requirements, including financial need. Carefully review these requirements to determine if you qualify for assistance.
After submitting your application, check your application status to ensure it has been processed. If you filed a paper FAFSA, you can check your status 7-10 days after mailing it. You will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) summarizing the information you entered on your FAFSA. Review it and make any necessary corrections before the deadline.
