FAFSA Free Application Financial Student Aid 11/29/2018 FAFSA Free Application Financial Student Aid www.fafsa.gov

11/29/2018 What is FAFSA? Federal student aid from the federal government – U.S. Department of Education. Covers expenses such as tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies and transportation. Three Categories: Grants, work-study, loans

Pin Number www.pin.ed.gov 11/29/2018 Pin Number This will enable you to sign your FAFSA application electronically. Your parents will most likely need a PIN number as well. www.pin.ed.gov

January 1st First day applications for FAFSA can be completed. 11/29/2018 January 1st First day applications for FAFSA can be completed. Check your dates for priority filing for each school you are applying for. Your parents can estimate their income. They can go back after they file taxes and either utilize the IRS Data Retrieval, or manually update financial information.

AWARD LETTERS Grants – free money, don’t have to pay back. 11/29/2018 AWARD LETTERS In the spring, each college you applied for will send you an “Award Letter” which will list the financial aid you are being offered. Grants – free money, don’t have to pay back. Work-study – working on campus to help pay for school Loans – borrowing money to be paid back after graduation. College decision day – May 1st.

11/29/2018 Common Mistakes Not using FULL names. Don’t use nicknames, use your legal name. Social Security number entered incorrectly. Leaving something blank. Not electronically signing and submitting. Not listing a college. Make sure you select all colleges you are applying for.