Don’t leave financial aid on the table—see how FAFSA can help you afford college.
It's no secret that the cost of college can be overwhelming, but don’t let that discourage you from pursuing your dreams. Thankfully, there are ways to make it much more manageable—and the FAFSA is one of the best places to start!
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is your ticket to unlocking a world of financial opportunities.
Financial aid isn't just limited to federal programs—it’s the key to unlocking numerous opportunities! Many colleges, state governments, and private organizations use your FAFSA information to determine your eligibility for scholarships and grants. By completing the FAFSA, you open doors to these resources, which can significantly reduce the amount you’ll need to save for.
Waiting until the last minute? Big mistake! The earlier you apply, the more chances you have to maximize your aid. Getting ahead of the game allows you to gather necessary documents, understand the process, and secure the most aid possible.
1️⃣ More aid options – Access to federal, state, and private scholarships and grants.
2️⃣ Reduced loan needs – Less money to borrow means less debt later.
3️⃣ Maximized funding – Applying early gives you the best shot at the maximum amount of aid.
Start preparing now to make your college dreams a reality—one form at a time!
PS. If you’re in the Class of 2025 and planning to start college in fall 2025, it’s important to start preparing for your FAFSA application early. You’ll need to complete your FAFSA application in fall 2024 or early winter 2025, so taking steps now can help make the process smoother and less stressful when the time comes.
Before you begin the FAFSA, you’ll need to create an FSA ID (Federal Student Aid ID). This unique username and password gives you access to the FAFSA application and other Federal Student Aid websites. You can create your FSA ID anytime, so why not get it done early? This will help you avoid any login issues later.
If someone else, like a parent or guardian, will contribute to your FAFSA application, they’ll need their own FSA ID too. It’s a good idea to remind them to set theirs up as well.
Protecting your personal information is essential. By enabling multifactor authentication (MFA) on your FSA account, you add an extra layer of security. Each time you log in, you’ll need to provide a one-time code sent via email, text message, or an authenticator app. Make sure the email address or phone number you use is reliable and accessible.
Read more: Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for FAFSA
To complete the FAFSA application, you’ll need several key documents and details, including:
Tip: Have a conversation with your parents or guardians about gathering these documents in advance. This way, you’ll know where to find them when it’s time to apply.
Different colleges, universities, and career schools may have varying deadlines for financial aid applications. Make a list of the schools you’re considering and note their specific FAFSA and scholarship deadlines. Some institutions require the FAFSA to be submitted earlier for eligibility for their own scholarships and grants.
Being organized with these deadlines can ensure you don’t miss out on valuable aid opportunities.
Preparing for college can feel overwhelming, but taking steps like creating your FSA ID, setting up multifactor authentication, gathering necessary documents, and staying aware of deadlines can make the FAFSA process much smoother. If you’re a younger student, start learning about the difference between a college’s sticker price and net price now—it’s never too early to plan.
For returning college students, don’t forget to check with your financial aid office for important deadlines to reapply for FAFSA each year.
Need more guidance? Reach out to us for one-on-one chats with financial pros, and exclusive scholarship opportunities. Let’s make your college dreams a reality!