Slideshow (3 minutes)
The FAFSA is every college student’s key to scholarships, grants and financial aid. Yet there are still some who don’t fill it out. The presentation on this page explores their possible reasons one by one, and explains why it’s better to fill it out than to miss out.
Benefits of filling out the FAFSA
Your FAFSA application serves several different but potentially very helpful purposes. It:
- Determines your eligibility for student loans from your state and the US government
- Determines whether you qualify for Pell Grants and/or work study programs
- Is used by many colleges and organizations to decide how much you may receive in scholarships and grants
- Has no income restrictions – Anyone going to college can apply
- Is confidential and can be filled out by undocumented parents
Submit your FAFSA as early as possible
In some cases, such as state funding and scholarship offers, there is only a limited amount of money available. Also, some aid sources work on a “first come, first served” basis, so it’s best to send in your completed application in a timely manner that puts you toward the front of the line.
For a downloadable calendar of the FAFSA process, tap here.
RELATED TOPICS:
FAFSA: what it is, how it works
A brief guide to understanding financial aid
Helpful sites for financial aid