How to Apply for Federal and State Aid

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Federal Financial Aid

If you're a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-U.S. citizen, completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) can help you pay for college. This free application is how you can apply for grants, loans, and work-study funds from the U.S. government. States and colleges also use information from your FAFSA to determine additional aid you may be eligible to receive.

Plan to file the FAFSA for each year you are enrolled in college to ensure you receive federal aid. Many colleges and state systems will also use your FAFSA each year to maximize your other financial aid offers

If you’re applying to receive financial aid during the 2023–24 school year, you should complete the 2023–24 FAFSA. If you already completed the 2023–24 FAFSA, but are transferring mid-year, you will need to edit your 2023–24 FAFSA to add the school you are transferring into.

If you are applying to receive financial aid in the 2024–25 school year, you should complete the 2024–25 FAFSA. This form opens in December, 2023, which is later than normal due to significant changes and improvements.

These guides and resources can help you complete the FAFSA:

What’s Changed for the 2024–25 FAFSA Form?: This video overviews the upcoming changes in the 2024–25 FAFSA.
Who Is a Contributor on the 2024–25 FAFSA Form?: Depending on your family, age, and financial circumstances, additional family members like a parent, stepparent, or spouse may be required to fill out part of your FAFSA. This video explains what a contributor is and how to determine who will contribute to your FAFSA.
Determining Your Dependency Status: This video explains how to determine if you are an independent or dependent student. Your dependency status impacts who will be a contributor on your FAFSA.
Wyatt: Wyatt is a digital FAFSA advisor offered by Benefits Data Trust. Wyatt can guide you with helpful reminders and answer your FAFSA questions via text, day or night.
Eligibility for Non-U.S. Citizens: This article helps non-U.S. citizens determine if they are eligible for federal aid. It also lists other financial aid options for ineligible students.
Paying for college: This Common App resource has additional information about applying for federal aid.

If you have questions, please contact Federal Student Aid for more information.

State Financial Aid

You can look up your state grant agency to explore financial aid opportunities provided by your state government. You may be eligible for state financial aid even if you’re not eligible for federal aid.