A form that starts a conversation
FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is a free application, not a scholarship or an offer of money. Schools use its information to consider eligible students for federal aid; states and institutions may also use it. Complete the form for the academic year you will attend.
Four things an offer can contain
Read each line separately. These types of support do different things.
- Grants: generally do not need repayment, but conditions apply. A change in enrollment can affect your award.
- Scholarships: may depend on financial need, achievement, or other criteria. Check renewal rules.
- Federal Work-Study: wages from a job. You must find or be placed in a job and work to earn the money; an award does not guarantee employment.
- Loans: borrowed money that generally must be repaid with interest. Review the borrower, terms, and total debt before accepting.
Your next steps
Use StudentAid.gov to submit the FAFSA, review your submission, and respond to requests from each school's financial aid office. Compare actual school offers. Federal, state, and school deadlines differ; check each one for your academic year. An estimate or a submitted form is not a final award.
Go to the source
Official and program-operated sources consulted for this guide on October 5, 2026. This editorial review is separate from any imported catalog review date. Access limits are noted below.