Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to learn if you are eligible for financial support. FAFSA can help with grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and loans for college or career school.

Begin the FAFSA application

Applying for federal student aid

Completing and submitting the FAFSA is free and gives you access to the largest source of financial aid for school. You must submit your FAFSA on time to be considered for federal student aid. States and colleges also use FAFSA information to award their own financial aid packages.

FAFSA deadlines

• For the school year 2026-27, the federal deadline to submit the FAFSA is June 30, 2027.

Many states use the FAFSA for their financial aid programs. See the state deadlines.

Create a FAFSA account and log in

Create an account and get a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID. You can use your FSA ID right away to sign and submit your first FAFSA form.

• But to use your FSA ID for anything else, you will have to wait up to three days for your information to be confirmed by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Log in to the FAFSA if you already have an account.

Fill out the FAFSA

Find out what information you need to fill out the FAFSA. It will be easier to complete the form if you have everything together before you start.

Begin the FAFSA application.

Avoid financial aid scams

You may not need to hire a company to help you find financial aid. Instead, search online for scholarships or ask a school guidance counselor for help. Learn what questions to ask before paying for help finding financial aid.

Eligibility for federal student aid

You must meet these basic eligibility requirements. This includes demonstrating financial need.

Check your FAFSA application status

After you submit your application, check its status to make sure it has been processed. You can:

• Log in to your account at fafsa.gov, or
• Contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center

If you submit a paper FAFSA form, you can check its status 7–10 days after you mail it.

You will receive a report with a summary of the information you entered on your FAFSA form. Review it and make any necessary corrections by the due date.

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