FAFSA

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    The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is the essential first step students must take to apply for college financial aid.  

    You can check your school's completion rate by visiting the .

     

    About FAFSA

    FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid that is required to be used by all higher education schools in awarding federal student aid. FAFSA is important - Money for college starts with FAFSA. FAFSA can help students to qualify for grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans.

     

    WHAT DO STUDENTS/PARENTS NEED?

    • FSA ID (parent and student) create IDs at .
    • Your social security number, driver‘s license, and/or A-number if not a U.S. citizen.
    • Your federal 2022 income tax returns, W-2s, and other records of money earned.
    • Your parent‘s 2022 income tax returns, W-2 forms, and 1040 forms if you‘re a dependent.
    • Bank statements, records of investments and untaxed income (if applicable).
    • A list of your post-secondary schools.

     

    2023-2024 FAFSA COMPLETION TIMELINE:

    • December 31, 2023 - FAFSA opens application period with soft launch.
    • December 31, 2023- March 1, 2024 (preferred dates for Rhode Island State Colleges & Universities). Refer to specific private college and university websites for their FAFSA deadline details.
    • Late January & February: RISLA (College Planning Center) is scheduling appointments:
    • Students and families will have ample time to complete the 2024–25 FAFSA form, and do not need to fill out the form immediately.
    • Results will be transmitted to colleges or technical schools later in January 2024.