FAFSA

The Application Process:

1. Create your FSA ID. If you haven't already done so, you must create a StudentAid.gov account, which includes your FSA ID username and password.
   • Dependent students: If you are a dependent student, at least one parent will also need their own FSA ID to access and sign their portion of the FAFSA form.
2. Gather required documents. Before you begin, collect the necessary financial documents, such as tax returns, bank statements, and records of investments, for both yourself and any contributing parents or spouses.
3. Start the FAFSA form online. Go to the official Federal Student Aid website, StudentAid.gov, and select "Log In." Enter your FSA ID username and password.
4. Complete the student section. As the student, you will fill out the initial sections with your demographic and personal information. The FAFSA form will determine if you are a dependent or independent student based on your answers.
5. Invite your contributors (if needed). If you are a dependent student, you will be prompted to invite your parent(s) to contribute to your FAFSA form. They will be sent an email invitation.
6. Provide consent for tax information. All contributors, including yourself, must provide consent and approval to have federal tax information directly transferred from the IRS into the FAFSA form. This streamlines the process and is a mandatory step for federal aid eligibility.
7. Sign and submit. Once all required sections are completed and contributors have provided their information and consent, you and any contributors will electronically sign the form with your respective FSA IDs. This submits the application for processing.
8. Wait for the Student Aid Index (SAI). After submitting the FAFSA, you will receive a FAFSA Submission Summary that includes your calculated Student Aid Index (SAI). Colleges use this index to determine your eligibility for financial aid. Click HERE for information on how the SAI (Student Aid Index) is calculated. 

Important Considerations:

• FSA ID confirmation: If this is your first time creating an FSA ID, there may be a waiting period of one to three days for your information to be confirmed with the Social Security Administration before your FSA ID is fully functional.  As of 2025, however, the confirmation should be immediate. 
• Keep your FSA ID secure: Your FSA ID is your legal signature. Do not share it with anyone, including family members.
• Annual application: You must complete a new FAFSA form for each academic year that you want to receive financial aid. You will use the same FSA ID to log in every year.