For many students, attending college can be a dream. But, for many the process can bring significant financial stress.
The costs of basic needs while attending college can be overwhelming, including tuition, books, housing, and food. However, billions of dollars in financial aid go unclaimed each year because students do not apply for Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Completing this application can help make your college education more affordable.
FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a free application that students in the U.S. complete to obtain financial aid for college. Non-U.S. citizens eligible for federal student aid include permanent residents, U.S. nationals, those who hold a T-1 visa or I-94, and more. The FAFSA determines your eligibility for financial aid, including grants (free money that doesn’t need to be repaid), work-study programs (part-time jobs to help cover costs), and student loans (which often have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans).
Understanding what the FAFSA is and how it works is just the first step. Knowing how to apply helps you fully utilize the available financial aid opportunities.
How to apply for FAFSA in 4 Steps
Create a FSA ID: Go to StudentAid.gov to create your FSA ID. This account will allow you to log in, sign your application, and track your financial aid status.
Gather Necessary Documents: Prepare your Social Security number, tax information, and bank statements. If you are a dependent student, you will also need your parents’ financial information.
Complete the Application: Visit FAFSA.gov to fill out your application. Make sure to accurately provide all required information and double-check it before submitting.
Submit and Follow-Up: After submitting your FAFSA, wait for an email confirmation. Review your Student Aid Report (SAR) for accuracy to ensure all details are correct. If the details are not correct, it could result in the rejection of your FAFSA or delays in processing, potentially causing you to miss out on the financial aid benefits you’re eligible to receive.
By following these four simple steps, you can secure financial aid for your education successfully. One of the best aspects of FAFSA is that there’s no penalty for applying, even if you don’t end up qualifying for aid. Many students miss out on FAFSA benefits because they either believe they won't qualify for financial aid or underestimate its significant impact. By not applying, students risk not getting the valuable funding available to them to help cover their tuition and educational expenses. Additionally, programs like the Minnesota North Star Promise, which offers free college tuition for eligible students, require a completed FAFSA.
Even if you believe you won’t qualify, it’s always beneficial to complete the FAFSA form—it could be the difference between financial struggle and achieving your academic dreams.
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