FAFSA BASICS
What does FAFSA stand for?
Free Application for Federal Student Aid
You'll need your _______ to log in and sign the FAFSA.
FAFSA ID
True or False: Only U.S. citizens can fill out the FAFSA
False --- eligible noncitizens can too.
True or False My parents make too much money, so I won't get any aid.
False --- FAFSA may still qualify you for loans or merit aid.
After submitting FAFSA, what report do you receive?
Student Aid Report (SAR)
What Month does the FAFSA usually open?
October (December for 2025-26)
What two financial documents are usually required from parents?
Tax returns and W-2 forms
What's the maximum age limit for completing the FAFSA?
There isn't one!
True or False: You should only fill out FAFSA if yo plan to attend a 4-year college.
False -- it's for trade and community colleges too!
What number determines how much aid you might receive?
Student Aid Index (SAI)
What number on your tax return helps determine your aid eligibility?
Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
What are the two main types of aid that don't have to be repaid?
Grants and scholarships
True or False: You must reapply for FAFSA every year
True
If selected for verification, what does that mean?
you must provide extra documentation
True or False: You have to pay to submit the FAFSA.
False ---- It's completely free!
If your family has had a drop in income, who should you contact?
Your school's financial aid office
What type of aid must be repaid with interest
Loans
True or False: It's okay to guess on the FAFSA.
False -- accuracy matters!
How do you send FAFSA to multiple schools?
List up to 20 colleges on the application
What government department manages the FAFSA?
U.S. Department of Education
You'll need to report your income from how many years prior?
Two years prior (the "prior-prior year" rule
What program lets students earn money by working part-time?
Federal Work-Study
If you miss the FAFSA deadline, can you still get aid?
Sometimes-- check your state and school deadlines.
What should you do if you make a mistake on your FAFSA?
Log in at the studentaid.gov and correct it.