National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators

About Financial Aid

It all starts with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). With this one application, you can apply for financial aid at multiple colleges and from multiple funding sources (federal, state, institutional and private providers of assistance).

When to complete your FAFSA

Right now! You fill out the FAFSA once for each academic year that you will attend school. The farther in advance you do it, the better! 

2012 - 2013 Academic Year 

The FAFSA for next academic year (July 1, 2012- June 30, 2013) is available online now. This worksheet gives you a preview of the questions asked, and will help you gather the information you need before starting the online application.

• Get ready to file online by obtaining your PIN now! Both students and parents need a PIN to electronically sign the application.
• Save your last paystubs of the year to help you estimate your 2011 income! 
• Deadlines for state financial aid programs - complete your FAFSA before this date to get priority consideration for financial aid from your state.
• Want personal help with completing your application? Attend a College Goal Sunday event in your state during January and February 2012.
• Here's a paper copy of the online form if you want to apply by mail instead.
• La versión 2012-2013 de la Solicitud Gratuita de Ayuda Federal para Estudiantes 
• Mistakes to avoid when completing the FAFSA

Props to the Charta Squad at Williamsburg Charter High School in Brooklyn, N.Y. who created this video for New York State Student Financial Aid Awareness Month.