You should start by filling out the federal government's aid application, the FAFSA. This application is used by both the federal
government and colleges when federal money is being dispersed.
government and colleges when federal money is being dispersed.
The best way to fill out and submit the FAFSA is online at the Department of Education's website at FAFSA® Application | Federal Student Aid. In order to do so, you and your child will first need to obtain an FSA ID, which you can also do online.
The FAFSA relies on current asset information and income information from two years prior. For example, the 2025-2026 FAFSA
relies on your 2023 income tax return. The FAFSA has the ability to directly import your tax information using the IRS direct data
exchange tool, which is built into the form. The FAFSA typically opens on October 1st for the following school year. However, the
2025-2026 FAFSA will be delayed until December, for the second year in a row.
Regarding college financial aid, colleges generally require both the FAFSA and the PROFILE form (or their own aid form in place
of the PROFILE). The PROFILE can also be filled out and submitted online. Make sure to find out which application your child's
college requires and make a note of all filing deadlines. Deadlines can vary depending on whether your child is a new student or a
returning student and whether your child is applying early decision/early action or regular decision.
