dash.How does the FAFSA work?
- Make a StudentAid.gov accountYou, and a parent if you're a dependent student, each need one to fill out and sign the form.
- File it each yearThe form opens in the fall for the next school year. You list up to 20 schools to receive your information.
- Get your aid offersYour schools use the results to build financial aid offers, which can include Pell Grants, work-study and federal loans.
Why the FAFSA deadline matters
The federal deadline is June 30 at the end of the school year it covers, but state and school deadlines are often much earlier, and some state aid runs out. Check your state's and your school's dates at StudentAid.gov and with your financial aid office.
Tell Dash those dates and it texts you before each one.
Questions students ask
Is the FAFSA free?
Yes. It's free at StudentAid.gov. Be wary of any site that charges to file it.
Do I need to fill out the FAFSA every year?
Yes. You submit a new FAFSA for each school year you want aid.
Is the FAFSA only for US students?
It's for US citizens and eligible noncitizens attending eligible schools. Students in Canada apply through their province's aid program, such as OSAP in Ontario.
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