The fall semester may feel far away, but the new school year will be here before you know it. If your family hasn’t completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) yet for any students planning to attend college, career or trade school between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026, then it’s time to get started.
Completing the FAFSA is essential to qualify for federal, state and institutional financial aid, including grants and federal student loans, as well as many scholarships. The earlier you complete it, the more aid you may be eligible to receive. Even if your family has enough funds to cover tuition and related costs, don’t leave money on the table by skipping the FAFSA.
Not sure where to start? Here’s what you need to know.
What Do You Need to Complete FAFSA?
Though the FAFSA is free to complete, there are certain steps and guidelines to follow in the application process. Here are some key things to keep in mind.
- Set Up Accounts Individually – Both students and contributors will need to create accounts through the Federal Student Aid website, though what information is required may differ.
- Ready Your Documents – You may need the following: social security number(s); other personal information, including dates of birth and best contact method; recent tax returns; records of child support, if applicable; current balances of cash, savings and checking accounts; and net worth of investments and assets. However, more or less information may be required depending on your family’s circumstances.
- Review Questions and Prompts Carefully – It is important to be as accurate in your application as possible, and answering incorrectly or missing information may contribute to your eligible aid. You can click the help (question mark) icon embedded in the form should you come across something you don’t understand, and the FAFSA Help Center is another great tool to use as you complete the application.
- Pay Attention to Deadlines – Your state and school of choice may have differing deadlines from the federal deadline. Note what deadlines may apply to you and be sure to complete the FAFSA before you self-eliminate by waiting too long.
Learn More: Preparing for the FAFSA: A Guide for Parents
Updates to the 2025 FAFSA
Remember, the FAFSA is a one-time application per year, so prepare to follow this process for every year of education your student enrolls. Similar to how your family’s financial situation may fluctuate over time, the FAFSA is subject to change year-over-year, as federal provisions are implemented, revised, or removed and the application itself is updated accordingly. Stay up to date about how these changes may affect you!
Learn More: 7 Key FAFSA Changes for 2025
Still Need Help Funding Your Education?
While federal financial aid can help pay for college, sometimes it doesn’t cover the complete cost of school. If you’ve also pursued state and institutional financial aid but still need help bridging the gap or covering unexpected costs, private student loans may be a viable option for you.
As you explore your choice, don’t hesitate to contact ELFI’s award-winning Student Loan Advisors who can provide expert support and guidance through the application process. Our free student loan calculator is a great resource to help you get started as you evaluate various loan options and determine what repayment plan may be right for you.
