The 2024-25 FAFSA is now open! If you’re heading to college this fall, it’s time to get it financial aid.
What’s the FAFSA?
The FAFSA, short for Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a free form from the government that makes it easier to get financial aid for college.
Fill it out at StudentAid.gov. It asks about your family and money situation to figure out your Student Aid Index (SAI). Colleges use this to decide what aid they can offer you.
Some aid is first-come, first-served, and some scholarships need FAFSA results. So aim for January or early February, but before your college’s priority deadline.
You’ll need info from your 2022 federal taxes and assets/investments as of today. Check out our FAFSA Checklist for everything you’ll need.
What’s the FSA ID?
It’s your username and password for the FAFSA. You and a parent each make one at studentaid.gov. You’ll use it to pull tax info, sign the FAFSA, and apply for loans. Make them early and keep them safe!
How often do I do it?
Every fall for the next school year.
The 2024-25 FAFSA’s opening got moved to Dec. 31. But for the 25/26 one, it should be back to Oct. 1 like usual.