Financial Resources

Scholarships

What is the FAFSA?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the form that determines a senior student's eligibility for financial aid—including grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and federal loans—to help pay for college, community college, or trade school. Completing the FAFSA is free, and it’s the most important step in securing money for education after high school.

Why Completing the FAFSA Matters

1) Access Free Money: Qualify for federal and state grants that don’t have to be repaid

2) Open Doors to Scholarships: Many colleges and organizations require the FAFSA to award aid

3) Compare College Costs: The FAFSA gives each student a personalized financial aid offer from every school they apply to.

4) Applies to All Paths: Use FAFSA funds at universities, community colleges, or trade schools.

5) Supports Military Students: The FAFSA helps students combine federal aid with GI Bill or tuition benefits to maximize funding.

6) Everyone Should Apply: Even if you think you won’t qualify, you might still be eligible for some type of aid.

Step 1: Create Your FSA ID

Before you start your FAFSA, both the student and one parent (if the student is dependent) will need to create an FSA ID. This serves as your secure login for the FAFSA website and your electronic signature on the form.

Tips for creating your FSA ID:

--> Use a personal email address, not your school email

--> Make sure you remember your username and password—you’ll need them each year.

-->Parent and student must use separate emails.

 Step 2: Complete the FAFSA

Once your FSA ID is set up, you can complete your FAFSA online:

The 2025–26 FAFSA opens October 1st, and the earlier you submit, the better your chances for maximum financial aid. You’ll need:

- Your FSA ID (student and parent)

- Your Social Security Number (SSN)

- 2024 tax information for both student and parent (for the 2026–27 FAFSA) and any other records of money earned.  (Note: You may be able to transfer your federal tax return information into your FAFSA using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool.)

- Bank Statements and records of investments (if applicable)

- Records of untaxed income (if applicable)

- A list of the colleges or programs you plan to apply to

When to Complete the FAFSA

We encourage all seniors to submit their FAFSA as soon as possible after October 1st. Our goal is to reach “50 by Fall”—meaning at least 50% of our senior class will complete the FAFSA by December 31st. Please attend our FAFSA Fiesta on October 30th 12-6pm in the Future Ready Classroom! We will have reps available to help families fill out the form and answer any questions you have!