Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Paying for college starts with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). By filling out the FAFSA, you unlock access to federal grants, work-study programs, and loans — and it’s often required for state and institutional aid, including scholarships offered through I Know I Can.
The FAFSA opens on or around December 1 each year. Keep reading to learn more important information.
Why Complete the FAFSA?
- Maximize Your Aid: The FAFSA determines your eligibility for need-based grants, like the Pell Grant, which you don’t have to repay.
- Qualify for Scholarships: Many scholarships (including I Know I Can’s) require a completed FAFSA.
- Access Work-Study Opportunities: Earn money while gaining work experience.
- Get Federal Loans: Access low-interest student loans with flexible repayment options.
Who Needs to Complete the FAFSA?
If you’re planning to attend college or any postsecondary education, you should complete the FAFSA — and you should do it every year you’re in school. Whether you think you’ll qualify for aid or not, many scholarships and grants require a completed FAFSA to be considered.
For dependent students, at least one parent or guardian (known as a contributor on the FAFSA) will also need to provide information and sign the form.
Regardless of your family’s income, you could still be eligible for non-need-based aid like federal loans or work-study programs.
Understanding Contributors
Anyone who provides information on your FAFSA form will be considered a contributor.
The term “contributor” refers to anyone (you, your spouse, your biological or adoptive parent, or your parent’s spouse) who’s asked to provide their information, consent and approval to have their federal tax information transferred automatically from the IRS into the FAFSA form, and signature on your FAFSA form.
Each contributor (student, parent, spouse) is required to provide information on the FAFSA and will need an FSA ID to access and complete their section of the application. You and each contributor should create your FSA IDs at least 3 days in advance before starting the FAFSA form.
The FSA ID is an account username and password combination that allows students and parents to log in to studentaid.gov and identify themselves electronically to access U.S. Department of Education systems.
How to Complete the FAFSA
1
Create an FSA ID
Every contributor need an FSA ID to sign the form electronically. Your account can take up to three days to process, so you should create it in advance of starting the FAFSA form.
Create Your FSA ID Here
2
Fill Out the Form
Gather the documents you’ll need like your Social Security Number, tax information, and financial records. Now, it’s time to start the FAFSA!
Start Your FAFSA Here
3
Sign and Submit
Review your application, have each contributor sign with their FSA ID, and submit.
Need Help Reviewing? Ask an Advisor.Want to learn more about the FAFSA? Check out these videos.
What’s Next After Submitting the FAFSA?
We’re here to help!
Have questions about the FAFSA or need help filling out your form? Reach out to your IKIC advisor to schedule a meeting.