Financial Aid: The Basics

To qualify, complete the FAFSA form by February 15th for the fall. ( There is no deadline on the form.  It is supposedly "first come first serve" - as though there is enough to go around.  The truth however, is that the "good money" is usually gone by March.)


The number one cause for delay is completion of the parents' tax return which must be attached.  Most Americans do their taxes in April - the month they're due.  This is too late for the FAFSA application. (Parents can estimate the taxes for the FAFSA application - but copies of the actual tax forms must eventually be turned in and corrected later - more red tape.) It pays to get everything in by February.

Triple check the form to be sure nothing is missing.  If there is the slightest program, the process is slowed down and sometimes the form is returned to you.