Is the FAFSA open for 2024?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a big deal for any American student seeking financial assistance for college.

It determines your eligibility for federal grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and even some state aid.

But with the academic year constantly moving forward, it’s common to wonder: is FAFSA open for 2024?

The answer depends on which academic year you’re applying for. 

Is the FAFSA Open for 2024-2025?

Yes. The FAFSA for the 2024-2025 academic year opened in a limited capacity in December 2023.

This was a departure from the usual October 1st launch date due to ongoing system updates aimed at simplifying the application process.

The FAFSA for the 2024-2025 school year is now fully operational and accepting applications.

The official deadline to submit your FAFSA for this academic year is June 30th, 2025.

However, to better your chances of receiving the financial aid, we highly recommend that you submit your application as soon as possible.

How to Apply for FAFSA

Applying for the FAFSA can seem difficult, but with the right resources and preparation, it can be a smooth process.

This is step-by-step guide on how to apply for FAFSA:

  1. Gather your documents: You’ll need your Social Security number, Federal Student Aid Identification Number (FSA ID), and tax information for yourself and your parents (if you’re a dependent student). You can apply using estimated tax information and update it later if needed.
  2. Create an FSA ID:  If you don’t have one already, create an FSA ID for both yourself and your parent(s) if applicable. This ID acts as your electronic signature.
  3. Apply online: Visit the Federal Student Aid website and complete the FAFSA application electronically.  The online application is generally faster and easier than paper versions.
  4. Review and submit: Carefully review your application for any errors or missing information. Once you’re confident, submit the FAFSA electronically.
  5. Monitor your status: You can track your FAFSA application status online using your FSA ID. This will tell you when your application has been processed and when you can expect to receive your Student Aid Report (SAR).
  6. Review your SAR: The SAR is a summary of the information you provided on your FAFSA. Take your time to review it for any errors and make corrections if necessary.
  7. Follow up with schools: Contact the financial aid office at each school you’re applying to to ensure they received your FAFSA data and inquire about any additional steps you might need to take.