Secure Your Future

FAFSA Topics and Resources

Learn what information you will need to complete your application and what to do before and after completing the FAFSA® form. 

Go to Federal Student Aid

✦The FAFSA is Open: 3 Things You Should Do Now✦

How to Prepare

The FAFSA Essentials

The 2025–26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is now open to all students. Here are some essential resources to help you complete your application.

Start Your FAFSA Application

Applying for the FAFSA is the most vital step to receiving federal aid. Federal Student Aid provides information about the application, federal and state deadlines, and frequently asked questions to assist in completing your application. 

Start Application

Who counts as a parent on the FAFSA form?

Unsure if you need to ask your parent(s) to provide information on the FAFSA? Use this tool to determine which parent(s) should participate.

Use Tool

Federal Student Aid YouTube Channel: FAFSA Videos

Updated videos to help students and families understand the importance of the FAFSA form, who is a FAFSA contributor, and what happens after submitting the form.

Watch Now

Before Starting the FAFSA Application

The FAFSA application form is crucial for securing federal financial aid as well as institutional grants and scholarships. Before starting your application, make sure to prepare what you need for the application and gather your documents and identification. 

What is a FSA (Federal Student Aid) ID?

As you prepare to fill out the FAFSA, one of the first things you’ll want to do is create an FSA ID. This is an account username and password for students and parents that allow them to access the FAFSA and sign the application electronically. 

Create FSA ID

FAFSA Frequently Asked Questions

Review frequently asked questions about the FAFSA application, including how to create an FSA ID and what parent or guardian information is needed.

Review FAQ

How to Complete the FAFSA

If there’s one thing you should do this year regarding financial aid, make it the FAFSA. Learn what you need to apply for financial aid including federal and state student grants, work-study, and loans. 

Learn More
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Stay on Track

Senior Financial Aid Checklist

Your senior year is an exciting time—you’re planning for what’s next after high school. This checklist will help you during your senior year as you start applying for colleges and financial aid opportunities.

View Checklist

After the FAFSA Application

When you complete and submit your FAFSA application, it’s important to understand the next steps to qualify for federal financial aid. Be sure to learn about these steps to secure your funding.

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FAFSA Verification

If you’ve been selected for FAFSA verification, don’t worry—it’s a routine part of the financial aid process for many students each year and doesn’t mean you’ve made a mistake. Learn what do if you are selected. 

Understand Verification
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Student Aid Index

The Student Aid Index (SAI) is an eligibility index number that the financial aid office at your college or career school uses to determine how much federal student aid you would receive. Learn how your SAI number is calculated. 

Learn About SAI
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How does Financial Aid Work

If you’re considering college after high school, you might be worried about how to pay for it, but you’re not alone. Each year, billions of dollars in financial aid are available to students, so make it a priority to determine your eligibility and how your financial aid will benefit you. 

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Types of Loans

For many students, taking out a loan is a way to secure their financial college dreams, but unlike other types of financial aid, loans must be repaid. Learn the facts about loans so you can borrow wisely.

Learn More