FAFSA Overview:

In order to apply for Federal Student Aid, you must complete and submit a Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Applying online with FAFSA On The Web is quicker and easier than submitting a paper application.

Remember, the FAFSA is a completely FREE application. If you need help filling it out, there are many free tools available to help you. You don’t need to pay anyone to help you fill out your FAFSA.

The best place to look for help filling out your FAFSA is at your school’s financial aid office. If you need help with a specific question, click on “NEED HELP?” located at the bottom of every FAFSA page. You can also get one-on-one help from a customer service representative by clicking on “Live Help” at the top of the FAFSA page.

Federal Student Aid Programs: Federal student aid is financial assistance that’s available through the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Federal Student Aid.

Federal student aid covers school expenses such as tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, and transportation. This aid can also help you pay for a computer and dependent childcare expenses.

There are three categories of federal student aid:

1. Federal Grants: These include the Pell Grant, TEACH and SMART Grant programs. The Pell Grant program is the most generalized and it does not have to be repaid. More Pell Grant links...

2. Federal Loans: These federal school loans include the Stafford and Plus Loan Programs. Unlike federal school grants (like the Pell Grant), federal student loans have to be repaid. More federal student loan links...

3. Campus Based Programs: These student aid programs are administered through the finanical aid office at the college.  They include work study programs and FSEOG grant program and the Perkins Loan Program.

Important Note: Not all schools participate in all federal student aid programs. Check with your school’s financial aid office to find out which programs your school participates in.

You also might be able to get financial aid from your state government, your school, or a private college loan. Explore every opportunity for your student financial aid!