In this blog, we'll explore why it's crucial to apply for the FAFSA as soon as possible, how applying early can maximize your financial aid, and the deadline you should be aware of for 2025.
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However, many students delay applying, often missing out on opportunities to receive more aid. In this blog, we'll explore why it's crucial to apply for the FAFSA as soon as possible, how applying early can maximize your financial aid, and the deadline you should be aware of for 2025.
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On October 14th, we’re diving deep into Understanding the FAFSA and teaching you exactly How to Apply to Get More Money! 💸 Whether you're filling out the FAFSA for the first time or need a refresher, this session will help you maximize your financial aid and avoid common mistakes. Don’t miss out on the chance to make college less stressful and more affordable.
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💡 This BOOTCAMP is exclusive to members of our student portal, so if you haven’t joined yet, now’s the time! Here’s what else you get in the full 6-week Bootcamp:
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đź’» Join now to get access to these exclusive, money-saving tips and expert advice!
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‍One of the most compelling reasons to apply for FAFSA early is that some forms of financial aid, such as state grants, work-study programs, and certain scholarships, are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. This means the earlier you apply, the better your chances of receiving these funds. Waiting too long can result in those funds running out, leaving you with fewer financial aid options.
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‍By submitting your FAFSA early, you’ll receive your financial aid package sooner. Knowing how much aid you qualify for will allow you to plan your budget for the upcoming school year and make informed decisions about which college to attend. Without this crucial information, you may be left guessing about your financial situation, which can add unnecessary stress.
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‍Filling out the FAFSA can be tricky, and errors can delay your financial aid processing. Applying early gives you a buffer to fix any mistakes, gather missing information, or provide additional documentation if needed. Waiting until the last minute increases the likelihood of delays that could affect your ability to secure aid before tuition is due.
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‍Federal loans are another key reason to submit your FAFSA early. While federal student loans aren’t distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, getting your financial aid offer sooner can give you a clear idea of how much you’ll need to borrow, helping you better plan for your future financial obligations.
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‍For students planning to attend college in the 2025-2026 academic year, the FAFSA deadline is June 30, 2025. However, individual states and colleges often have earlier deadlines for certain types of aid, so it’s a good idea to check with your school and state financial aid office. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the FAFSA will open in December 2024 with the deadline remaining June 30, 2025.
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To ensure students have enough time to maximize their aid opportunities, it's still crucial to apply as soon as possible once the FAFSA opens in December. Also, keep in mind that individual states and schools may have earlier deadlines, so checking with them is key to ensuring you don't miss out on additional financial aid.
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If you miss deadlines, always contact your school’s financial aid office to see what options are still available for you. Some states and schools continue to award aid to FAFSA latecomers, but your chances get much slimmer, and the aid is often lower. You may still be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant. If you miss the June 30 federal deadline, you’re no longer eligible to submit that year’s FAFSA form.
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By applying these tips, you'll be better positioned to secure the financial aid you need for college. The earlier you start, the more opportunities you'll have to maximize your assistance! To make the most out of your FAFSA application, here are five smart tips to keep in mind:
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‍Before starting your FAFSA, gather all the necessary documents, such as your Social Security number, tax returns, bank statements, and any other financial records. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and ensure you don’t miss any key details.
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‍As mentioned earlier, applying early is critical. The FAFSA opens on October 1, and some financial aid is distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Mark your calendar and submit your application as soon as possible to improve your chances of receiving the most aid.
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‍Even if you think your family’s income is too high to qualify for aid, fill out the FAFSA anyway. Many factors go into determining eligibility, and you might be surprised by the types of aid you’re offered. Plus, you need the FAFSA to qualify for federal student loans.
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‍Mistakes on your FAFSA can delay your aid or reduce the amount you’re eligible to receive. Double-check your information for accuracy, especially your Social Security number, tax figures, and listed schools. If you catch an error after submission, you can always make corrections online.
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‍You can list up to 10 schools on your FAFSA, and it's wise to include all the colleges you're considering, even if you’re unsure where you’ll attend. Each school will use your FAFSA information to determine your financial aid package, and having multiple options allows you to compare offers.
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‍Applying for the FAFSA early isn’t just a smart move—it can make the difference in the type and amount of financial aid you receive. From securing first-come, first-served aid to getting a head start on your financial planning, there are numerous benefits to submitting your application as soon as it opens.
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