Let’s start with a little bit about what the FAFSA form actually is. FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid; translation: The U.S. Department of Education uses this form to determine a student's eligibility for need-based federal financial aid for college based upon their financial situation. Aid which may include federal grants, scholarships, work-study and loans. If eligible, it can really help you pay for school!
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If the words “help you pay for school" aren't incentive enough, here are some additional details of why it’s beneficial for you to fill out your financial aid application:
Rumor has it…I don’t have to fill out a FAFSA form if I’m not looking for federal aid.
In reality…why would you turn down help to get an education? That’s just silly!
You may have to complete the FAFSA as a prerequisite for high school graduation based upon your state residency. Learn more about what this means for you.
Rumor has it…it costs money to fill out the FAFSA.
In reality…that's just false! It’s free to fill out (and free to see if you're eligible for federal aid, too!).
Rumor has it…the Federal Government has made the financial aid application form a time-consuming process.
In reality…you should forget about the tedious, time-consuming government form that FAFSA used to be – the form has been revamped and simplified!
Filling out the FAFSA is now easier than ever before and usually takes 30 minutes or less to complete.
Rumor has it…that my family makes too much money/my grades aren't good enough/I’m too old, so I’ll never qualify for financial aid.
In reality…tons of students qualify for financial aid – probably a lot more than you think!
Don’t let rumors stop you from getting financial aid that’s meant for every type of student!
Need more FAFSA help? Find everything you need to help you file for financial aid here on Fastweb.
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Shawna Newman
Managing Editor, Contributing Writer
Shawna Newman is the Managing Editor and a writer at Fastweb. She has over 10 years of experience in higher education. Her direct work with college admissions teams, financial aid officers, college deans, ...
