Here are some steps you could take for a smooth FAFSA app.
Typically, the form becomes available on Oct. 1 each year.
The department originally aimed for a release goal of Dec. 1 but completed testing early.
It’s also important to get your FAFSA in ahead of your college and state deadlines.
Each school sets its own FAFSA deadlines, but they often fall sometime between January and March.
you’ve got the option to check your state’s deadline on theFederal Student Aid website.
This includes setting an FSA ID, which is your unique username and password.
Anyone who contributes to the FAFSA will need their own FSA ID.
Parents don’t need to have an SSN, but they must enter their SSN if they have one.
Are you pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree?
Are you a veteran or currently serving on active duty in the U.S. armed forces?
Were you an orphan, a ward of the state or in foster care before the age of 13?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you could be considered an independent student.
If your answer is no, you’re a dependent student.
Dependent students must fill out the FAFSA with the help of at least one parent.
If your parents are married and filed taxes separately, then both will need to contribute to the FAFSA.
Note that students and parents fill out separate sections of the FAFSA.
verify you’re working on the right section to avoid errors.
The form is shorter, but you don’t want to rush through it.
Before you hit submit, review everything to ensure all your answers are correct.
Errors could result in delays, which could impact your financial aid awards.
Fortunately, there are resources that can help you along the way.
The contact center increased staffing this year andexpanded its nighttime and Saturday hoursthrough March 2, 2025.
