One of the most critical steps in applying for federal and state financial aid programs is filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This federal form uses a formula to determine a family's Expected Family Contribution (EFC), or the amount of money a family is expected to pay for college costs. Schools use this information to determine what sources of aid the family qualifies for including grants, scholarships, work-study, and loan programs.

Students and their families should send in the FAFSA as soon after January 1st as possible. Families are encouraged to file the FAFSA early even if they do not have all the necessary tax information required for the form. If necessary, this information can be estimated. You will always have the opportunity to change or update information later in the financial aid process when you receive a copy of your Student Aid Report (SAR) from the federal processor.

There is no fee involved in filling out the FAFSA and all families are encouraged to apply regardless of their family circumstances. You'll never know what you are eligible for unless you go through the process. While the FAFSA form may seem long and complicated to fill out, there are many resources available to help answer your questions. You must reapply each school year that you are hoping to receive financial aid by filling out a new FAFSA form. You can obtain a copy of the FAFSA form online at www.FAFSA.ed.gov, through the high school guidance department, or the financial aid office at the colleges where you are applying.

Apply for the FAFSA Online