Filing the FAFSA is the first step to finding money for college. The new FAFSA opening date for 2023-24 starts October 1st, 2022. Receive free assistance with the application process in this in-person FAFSA lab.

To complete the FAFSA application, you will need:

Social Security Number or Alien Registration Number* 2021 federal income tax returns, W-2s, and other records of money earned (e.g., IRS 1040, 1040EZ, etc.) Records of investments, veterans’ benefits, and/or untaxed income (if applicable) Parents’ information (if applicable): Parents’ date of birth; Month and Year of marriage/divorce A Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID) to electronically sign your FAFSA. (If you do not already have one, visit https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id to obtain one.)

*Social Security cards issued for work purposes only are not FAFSA eligible (e.g., DACA recipients)

If a student is considered dependent, they will also need their parent/guardian's financial information. A student is considered independent if they answer YES to any of the following. Otherwise, they are considered dependent:

Age 24 or older by Dec. 31st of the award year Married Working on a master’s or doctorate degree Current active member or veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces Have children or dependents (other than a spouse) who received more than half of their support from you