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FAFSA. What is it?

All schools must use this application to award federal and institutional student aid. Completing the FAFSA can help students qualify for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs.

Reach out to our RISLA's College Planning experts! They can get you started with your FAFSA and answer questions about the completion process. We are here to help you start to finish!

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FAFSA Completion Guide

A step-by-step preview of the FAFSA form.
Review the FAFSA form in detail before completing it. We have provided a step-by-step guide for each section of the FAFSA and clear instructions for the information needed on each screen.
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FSA ID

For Parents & Students

This is for students and parents to create their FSA ID.

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FAFSA Guide

For Dependent Students

For dependent students to begin the FAFSA,  then invite parent(s) to complete it.

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FAFSA Guide

For Parent(s)

This is for parents beginning the FAFSA on behalf of their dependent student.

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RISLA College Planning Center

Schedule an appointment with one of our experts.

The RISLA College Planning Center (CPC) is here to help students achieve their higher education dreams! We offer complimentary FAFSA completion appointments for both parents and students—let’s make those goals a reality together!

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Why Fill Out the FAFSA?

Here are some reasons why completing your FAFSA is important.
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The FAFSA is Free!

It's called the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and the word "FREE" is right in the name!

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File Early

Filing earlier is better.  You may receive your school’s award letters earlier, allowing more time to compare offers and explore options for unmet financial needs.
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Institutional Aid

Is used to determine more than just Federal Aid. Schools require the FAFSA for institutional aid if they do not require the CSS Profile.

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Work-Study

Determines eligibility for Work Study. Federal Work-Study offers part-time jobs to undergraduate and graduate students with financial needs, enabling them to earn money for education expenses.

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Required Annually

The FAFSA must be completed yearly. Federal aid, including eligibility for federal student loans, is awarded annually; therefore, completion is required each year to receive aid.

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RI Promise & Hope Scholarship

Determines eligibility for the RI Promise Scholarship. All Rhode Islanders who graduate high school can pursue associate degrees at CCRI without paying tuition through the Promise scholarship.

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Check out Knowledge for College Scholarship! We award $2,000 each to four deserving students every month. Whether you need help covering tuition, books, or living expenses, our scholarship can help ease the burden.

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