Don’t dismiss federal student aid just because you or your family earns a decent income.
Over $150 billion in grants, loans, and work-study funds are distributed annually by the U.S. Department of Education, and you might still qualify.
Even before you start wondering if you are eligible for the aid, Create an FAFSA account.
Once your FAFSA application is submitted, your eligibility for aid is determined based on the information provided.
The basis of this assessment is the calculation of your Expected Family Contribution (EFC).
Your EFC influences your eligibility for Federal Pell Grants, school-based aid, and certain federal loan programs.
FAFSA Eligibility Requirements
Several factors determine your eligibility for federal student aid:
Education Background
You must have a high school diploma, a General Equivalency Diploma (GED), or have completed high school through a state-approved home-school program.
Citizenship Status
U.S. citizenship isn’t always a prerequisite for FAFSA aid. Eligibility extends to:
- U.S. citizens with Social Security numbers.
- Legal permanent residents or eligible noncitizens, including U.S. nationals.
- Individuals from certain Pacific Island territories.
- Those with refugee status, victims of human trafficking, and recipients of political asylum.
Enrollment in an Eligible Program
You must be enrolled or accepted into an eligible degree or certificate program at an accredited institution.
Certification Agreement
Agreeing to the certification statement is essential, confirming your compliance with federal student aid regulations, including proper use of funds for educational purposes.
Maintaining Eligibility
Securing federal student aid isn’t a one-time deal; you must maintain eligibility by:
Academic Progress
Maintaining satisfactory academic progress, typically defined as a minimum GPA of 2.0 and progress toward completing your program within a reasonable timeframe.
Clean Criminal Record
Avoiding a conviction for the possession or sale of illegal drugs while receiving federal financial aid is imperative to retaining eligibility.
Below are more resources to clear your doubts on FAFSA requirements