Paying for college in the United States can be challenging, but one important source of aid is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
This form/service, managed by the US Department of Education, helps students access financial assistance.
Knowing FAFSA deadlines is important for anyone planning to attend college and seeking financial aid.
Here is all you need to know about the FAFSA Closing Date,
2024 FAFSA Closing Date
FAFSA becomes available each year on October 1, and the deadline to submit it is June 30 of the following year.
FAFSA Closing Dates for Different Academic Years
If you’re starting college in the fall of 2024, your FAFSA form is accessible from October 1, 2023 and due by June 30, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. CT. Remember, you must file a FAFSA every year you attend college to qualify for financial assistance.
Besides the federal deadline, there are two other important deadlines: college and state deadlines.
College FAFSA Deadline
Each college sets its financial aid deadline, usually aligning with FAFSA’s deadline.
You can find your school’s deadline and Federal Student Code on its financial aid webpage or by searching online.
State FAFSA Deadline
States also have deadlines for FAFSA submissions, typically listed on FAFSA.gov.
Many states offer aid on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s essential to submit your FAFSA by June 30 to qualify.
Types of Financial Aid
FAFSA simplifies the process of applying for financial aid by considering you for various types simultaneously:
- Grants: Funds you don’t have to repay, like Pell Grants and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants.
- Scholarships: Awards based on merit or specific criteria.
- Work-Study Jobs: Part-time jobs are available to enrolled students to help cover expenses.
- Federal Student Loans: Loans with benefits like lower interest rates and flexible repayment plans.
The aid you receive depends on your financial situation and the type of aid available.
Applying for FAFSA
To apply for FAFSA, you need to create an FSA ID using your name and social security number. Then, you can complete the form online at FAFSA.gov, via the myStudentAid app, or by mailing a paper version.
Required Documents
Dependent students must report their financial information and their parents’, while independent students only report their own. Required documents include:
- Social Security Number or Alien Registration Number (if applicable)
- Federal tax returns, W2s, and income documentation
- Bank statements, investment records, and records of untaxed income, if applicable