To receive government-funded financial aid, including grants, loans and work-study, US college students are required to submit a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Many institutions also require a FAFSA when students apply for aid from the school itself. It is necessary to resubmit a FAFSA each year a student wants aid, as the amount of need is recalculated annually, often based on changing factors such as the number of siblings also in college. A few weeks after submitting the FAFSA, students receive a letter that summarizes their financial data, detailing their aid eligibility and expected family contribution. The government and schools then use this information to decide on the amount of the aid award.
Online FAFSAs are available from US Department of Education. The paper form can be obtained from high school and college financial aid offices, at public libraries, or by calling 1-800-4-FED-AID.
Last updated: April 26, 2006.
