What is FAFSA?
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the form students complete each year to apply for financial assistance for college, university, career school, or trade school. The FAFSA determines eligibility for federal grants, work-study programs, and student loans. Many states, colleges, universities, and scholarship programs also use FAFSA information when awarding financial aid.
Students should complete the FAFSA even if they are unsure whether they will qualify for assistance. Some financial aid is limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so families are encouraged to apply as soon as the FAFSA becomes available.
Completing the FAFSA is free. Students and required contributors, such as parents, must create their own StudentAid.gov accounts and should save their login information in a secure location.
Complete the FAFSA and learn more at StudentAid.gov
The FAFSA application opens October 1, 2026.