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Welcome to the FAFSA Page!
Click on the link to go to FAFSAhttps://fafsa.ed.gov/
How to Fill Out the 2025-2026 FAFSA: Step-by-Step Guide
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Create an FSA ID
- What is it? An FSA ID is a username and password that allows you to sign the FAFSA electronically. Both the student and one parent (if the student is dependent) need to create their own FSA ID.
- Where to create it? Visit the official FSA ID website to create your account. Keep the login details safe!
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Gather Required Documents
You’ll need several documents to complete the FAFSA. Here’s what you’ll need:- Social Security Number (SSN) or Alien Registration Number (if applicable)
- Driver’s license (if applicable)
- Federal tax information or tax returns (IRS 1040 form) from 2023
- W-2 forms or other records of income (if applicable)
- Bank statements and investment records
- Records of untaxed income (if applicable)
- Any other documents requested on the FAFSA form
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Start the FAFSA Application
- Go to the FAFSA website: Visit www.studentaid.gov and click on “Apply for Aid.”
- Log in: Use your FSA ID to log into the FAFSA portal.
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Select the Correct FAFSA Form
- Make sure you select the FAFSA for the 2025-2026 academic year, as the form will differ based on the year you are applying for.
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Fill Out Your Personal Information
- Provide your name, date of birth, Social Security number, contact information, and more.
- For students, you will need to provide details about your citizenship status and whether you’re a resident of the U.S. or another country.
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Provide School Information
- List the schools you are considering attending. You can list up to 10 schools to receive your FAFSA information. If you haven’t decided yet, you can always add or remove schools later.
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Answer Dependency Status Questions
- The FAFSA will ask whether you’re considered a dependent or independent student. Your dependency status depends on factors such as age, marital status, military service, and other criteria.
- If you are considered a dependent student, you’ll need to provide your parents' information.
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Provide Financial Information
- The FAFSA will ask for your family’s financial information, including income and assets. You can use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to transfer your 2023 tax information directly into the FAFSA form, making this step quicker and more accurate.
- If you or your parents haven’t filed taxes yet, you may be able to use estimated figures for now, but you will need to update them once you file taxes.
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Sign and Submit Your FAFSA
- Both the student and one parent (if applicable) must sign the FAFSA using your FSA IDs. If you’re a dependent student, your parent must also sign.
- After reviewing all the information, submit your application. You’ll receive a confirmation message after successful submission.
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Review Your Student Aid Report (SAR)
- After submitting your FAFSA, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) summarizing the information you provided. This is where you will see your Expected Family Contribution (EFC).
- Review the SAR for any errors and correct them if necessary. Schools will use this information to determine your financial aid eligibility.
- Wait for Financial Aid Offers
- Schools will process your FAFSA and send you a financial aid offer (usually in the spring or summer). This will include the amount of federal aid you qualify for, such as grants, work-study, and loans.
- Update FAFSA if Necessary
- If your financial situation changes or you need to make corrections, you can log into your FAFSA account and update the form. It’s important to do so if any new information arises before or during your school year.
Helpful Tips:
- Start early to allow time for issues to be addressed and to meet deadlines.
- Stay organized by keeping track of all required documents.
- Double-check all information before submitting to avoid mistakes.
- Keep an eye on deadlines and update your FAFSA each year to remain eligible for financial aid.
By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to completing your FAFSA and accessing the financial aid you need to attend college!
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