The FAFSA: An Introduction

Now that the college application process is mostly over, this is the time to start securing scholarships and financial aid. The FAFSA is a major component of that process.

What is the FAFSA?
The purpose of the FAFSA (Free Application for Student Financial Aid) is to determine how much your family can pay to support your college education.

Why should I fill out the FAFSA?
Most schools require it in order to determine your demonstrated financial need -that is, how much money you need in order to attend. Thus, if you want any sort of financial aid, you most likely need to fill out the FAFSA.

When should I fill out the FAFSA?
In order to receive the best financial aid award possible, you should fill out the FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1, 2008. This is because most colleges and universities award aid on a first-come-first-serve basis. If you apply too late, there may be less aid money available.

If you want to actually fill out the FAFSA, or just want more information, visit http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/