What Is FAFSA®?

The FAFSA® form, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a form used to apply for financial aid. Completing the FAFSA form is the only way to access the largest source of financial aid-federal student aid-to help you pay for your education.
Students who submit the FAFSA form may become eligible to receive scholarships, grants, work-study funds, and student loans. Schools use the information provided on the FAFSA form to calculate aid packages and then put together an aid offer. It’s important to submit a FAFSA form every year you plan to attend college or career/trade school to remain eligible and receive aid.
The 2025-26 FAFSA form will be available to the public on or before Dec. 1, 2024.
Between Oct. 1 and Dec. 1, the 2025-26 FAFSA form will be available to individuals selected to participate in a limited beta release. Participation in the beta release is by invitation only. More info: StudentAid.gov...
Pro tip: We strongly recommend that students start and complete their section of the FAFSA form first to save time and prevent errors. For more tips on completing the form head to studentaid.gov...
Learn more about the FAFSA process at studentaid.gov...
Start your FAFSA form at fafsa.gov.
Watch the full FAFSA FAQ playlist at • FAFSA FAQs