Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
U.S. Department of Education
What is Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an application used by virtually all two and four-year colleges, universities, and career schools for awarding Federal, state, and college-funded student aid.
Administration
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is administered by U.S. Department of Education.
Program Requirements
To be eligible for this benefit, you must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Have a valid Social Security Number (unless you are from the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, or the Republic of Palau)
- Register with Selective Service if you are a male and 18 to 25 years of age. Go to the Selective Service System website for more information
- Have a high school diploma or a General Education Development (GED) Certificate or pass an exam approved by the U.S. Department of Education
- Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a regular student working toward a degree or certificate in an eligible program at a school that participates in the federal student aid programs
- Not have a drug conviction for an offense that occurred while you were receiving Federal student aid (such as grants, loans, or work-study)
- Other requirements may apply. Contact your school's financial aid office for more information
Application Details
What is the application process for Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step in the financial aid process. Complete the form online. You use it to apply for Federal student financial aid, such as grants, loans, and work-study. In addition, most states and schools use information from the FAFSA to award non-federal aid.