Step-By-Step FAFSA Guide: How to Apply for Financial Aid
What is the FAFSA?
The FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is required to qualify for almost all types of financial aid, including loans. You must fill out a new FAFSA every year if you want aid.
When you submit the FAFSA to the U.S. Department of Education, it estimates how much your family can afford to pay for college. An underlying premise of its financial aid policy is that it is the family’s primary responsibility to pay for college. Rarely does financial aid cover all your college expenses.
The purpose of financial aid is to supplement what your family can afford to pay.
Even if you think you won’t qualify for federal aid because your income is too high, fill out the FAFSA. Many scholarships require it. And you might be surprised by what you qualify for. For instance, if you have a sibling starting college, you may qualify for more financial aid.
*Most international students are not eligible for federal financial aid and do NOT need to fill out a FAFSA. If you are an eligible noncitizen, you may qualify for federal financial aid. Complete the FAFSA to determine your eligibility.
Do I Fill Out the FAFSA or Do My Parents?
It’s your FAFSA. You need to fill out the application and must sign the form before submitting it. Your parent(s) also have to provide financial information and sign the application if you are a dependent student. A series of questions on the application will help you determine if you’re a dependent or independent student. All graduate and professional students are considered independent.
What is the FAFSA Process Timeline?
December: FAFSA opens for next award year
February: UToledo begins to receive FAFSA resultsfrom the federal processor
March: UToledo begins sending financial aid offers to new undergraduate students
Who should complete the FAFSA form?
Any student, regardless of income, who wants to be considered for federal, state, and UToledo financial aid programs. This includes grants, scholarships, work-study funds, and loans.
How long will it take?
It takes most people less than one hour to fill out the FAFSA form, including gathering any personal documents and financial information needed to complete it.
Where do I complete the FAFSA form?
The FAFSA can be submitted on the FAFSA website.
What do I need?
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- Verified account username and password (FSA ID)
- Parent of spouse contributor name, date of birth, Social Security number, and email address
- Income and asset information (if required)
What if my financial circumstances change?
We realize financial circumstances can change. If the information you reported on your FAFSA does not reflect your current financial situation, you may be eligible for an adjustment to your financial aid by completing UToledo's Special Circumstances Application. Contact Rocket Solution Central for assistance.
How do I get aid for the summer semester?
Most financial aid can be used for summer semesters. But you’ll need to fill out a summer aid application.