What is the FAFSA?
FAFSA stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and it’s the key to getting money for college, trade school, or career programs. By filling out this free application every year, you can unlock grants, work-study opportunities, and loans to help cover education costs.
Who qualifies? Almost everyone! To get federal aid, you’ll need to:
Show financial need
Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
Have a Social Security number (some exceptions apply)
Enroll in a degree or certificate program and stay on track academically
FAFSA isn’t just for students heading to four-year colleges—it’s for anyone pursuing trade school or certification that has tuition. Don’t leave money on the table—complete your FAFSA! Check page 3 for links to tools, resources and videos to help you with the FAFSA application.
Types of Financial Aid
1. Federal Grants:
Money that does not have to be paid back
The maximum Federal Pell Grant for the 2024-2025 award year is $7,395
The Federal Pell Grant is for undergraduates with financial need who have not earned a bachelor's or professional degree.
Eligibility is linked to family size and the federal poverty line.
2. Federal Work Study:
Money is earned through a job* and doesn't have to be repaid
Your total work-study award depends on:
when you apply
your level of financial need
your school's funding level
*You apply for an on-campus job and work a part-time schedule to earn the award money. You receive money in a bi-weekly paycheck, based on your work hours. Your pay amount comes from the award you received. It is not awarded in a lump sum, you must work to earn the award
3. Federal Student Loans:
Loans that accumulate interest;
they must be repaid
When Do I Apply for the FAFSA?
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) typically opens every year on December 1 for the next school year (Ex. Opens December 1, 2024, for students starting college/trade school in the fall of 2025). Students should apply as soon as possible because some aid is given out on a first-come, first-served basis. You’ll apply almost a year in advance—depending on how quickly you finish your GS courses and your anticipated graduation date. The application stays open until June 30 of the following year, but pay attention because some states and schools have earlier deadlines.
Yes, you must reapply every year if you want to keep receiving financial aid. Even if you don’t think you’ll qualify, it’s worth applying—you might be surprised by the help you can get!
Pro tip: Gather all required documents like your Social Security number and tax info early to make the process easier.
Learn more about the
College Degree Seeking Pathway
This pathway is for students looking to further their education beyond high school and earn an associate degree or transfer to a four-year university.
Interested in exploring
more options?
Everyone’s plans after high school are different; find the path that’s right for you and connect with resources to help you succeed in your goals.
Have questions?
We’re always available to help answer any questions you may have; reach out to us anytime!