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The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will be available no later than December 31st, with changes including fewer questions and revisions to the aid formula. It is essential for students to complete the FAFSA in order to be eligible for federal financial aid for college. It is best to file the FAFSA early, despite the delayed start date, as several states award aid on a first-come, first-served basis and colleges will be condensing their work into a shorter time period. Parents and students should create their Federal Student Aid ID in advance and gather financial documents before filling out the form. Both parent and student sections need to be completed separately and financial information from the previous year’s tax returns is required. Finally, although the deadline to apply for federal aid is June 30, 2025, it is still recommended to submit the application early.



Original: How to Apply for the FAFSA: Step-by-Step Guide