Academics : FAFSA Tips

  1. Filling out the FAFSA is the only way you will be eligible for Federal student aid from the government. You can also apply for FAFSA for trade school and community college. You should fill out FAFSA even if you are not sure you want to attend college or are unsure of where you will attend at this point.
  2. Apply for a pin if submitting electronically at www.pin.ed.gov. You can do this at any time and is the first step in filling out FAFSA.
  3. Some colleges will require ADDITIONAL FORMS such as CSS/ Financial Aid Profile. Check with each school what they require.
  4. You can complete the FAFSA online or in paper form. Either pick up a copy from the Guidance office or your local library. Go online to www.fafsa.ed.gov. Be careful of similar websites and never pay to fill out FAFSA. Online submissions are processed faster.
  5. First collect the needed documents to fill out FAFSA:
    • Most recent tax returns
    • W-2 forms
    • Untaxed income records such as Social security, temporary assistance to needy families, welfare, or veterans benefits
    • Most recent bank statements
    • Alien registration card (if not a U.S. citizen)
  6. Do not submit FAFSA beyond March 1st.
  7. Be sure to include all school codes that you have applied to so that you will be eligible for financial aid at any school you attend.
  8. Legal guardians must be the one to apply for FAFSA for the student and will be expected to contribute to the cost of college. (Example if you live with an aunt or grandparent but they aren’t your legal guardian)
  9. If parents are divorced, the custodial parent fills out the FAFSA. Income from step-parents is required.
  10. Within 3 days to four weeks you will receive a Student Aid Report, review and check for mistakes. Follow directions for making and submitting corrections.
  11. The (Expected Family Contribution) EFC is an estimate that the government thinks the family should contribute to college costs. The school and state can then give additional aid beyond the Federal aid.

 

Need Help NOW??

Helpful websites:
www.federalstudentaid.ed.gov
www.fafsa.ed.gov
www.bankofamerica.com/studenthandbook
www.pheaa.org


FAFSA Helpline: 1-800-730-8913


Visit your local college access office:

College Access Centers
West Philadelphia Enterprise Center
4548 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19139
215-476-2227
Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM