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Financial Aid FAFSA

Financial Aid

Need Help Understanding the Financial Aid Process?   

 

 

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Filling Out The FAFSA

Steps for Students:

  1. Create an FSA ID: Both the student and one parent need to create an FSA ID at StudentAid.gov. This ID is used to sign the FAFSA electronically.
  2. Gather Required Documents: Collect necessary documents such as Social Security numbers, driver's license, Tax Return and bank statements (if applicable).
  3. Start the FAFSA: Go to https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa and Create an account. Select the appropriate academic year and follow the prompts.
  4. Enter Student Information: Fill in personal information, including name, date of birth, and address.
  5. School Selection: List the schools you are considering attending. You can add up to 10 schools.
  6. Dependency Status: Answer questions to determine if you are a dependent or independent student.
  7. Parent ("Contributor") Information: If you are a dependent student, provide your parents' information, Name, DOB, Email, SSN.
  8. Sign and Submit: Review your application for accuracy, sign it using your FSA ID, and submit it. You will receive a confirmation email once it's submitted. A Contributor will be determined and emailed an invite to fill out their portion of the FAFSA.

Steps for Parents:

  1. Create an FSA ID: If you haven't already, create an FSA ID at StudentAid.gov.
  2. Provide Consent and Approval: Agree to share your tax information with the IRS for the FAFSA.
  3. Enter Parent Information: Fill in your personal and financial information, including income and tax details.
  4. Sign the FAFSA: Use your FSA ID to sign the FAFSA electronically.

Important Tips:

  • Complete the FAFSA Early: Submit the FAFSA as soon as possible after December 1st to maximize your chances of receiving aid. The deadline for California state aid is March 2nd.
  • Check for Errors: Double-check all information for accuracy to avoid delays in processing.
  • Follow Up: After submitting the FAFSA, monitor your email and StudentAid.gov account for any updates or additional information requests.

After Submitting the FAFSA:

  • Review Your FAFSA Submission Summary: You will receive a FAFSA Submission Summary, formerly known as the Student Aid Report (SAR), summarizing your FAFSA information. Review it for accuracy.
  • Apply for Additional Aid: Look into other financial aid opportunities, such as local, regional, and national scholarships.
  • Stay Informed: Keep track of deadlines and requirements for each school you are applying to, as financial aid deadlines often occur before admission decisions. Each school may offer their own financial aid as well!

For more detailed guidance, you can refer to resources like the Federal Student Aid website.


Students planning to attend Folsom Lake College MUST complete the FAFSA in order to qualify for two years FREE tuition grants. Click HERE for more about the Los Rios Promise.