This Mind - Steps to completing your 2014-2015 FAFSA

Get free information and help from a school counselor, the financial aid office at the college or career school you plan to attend, or the U.S. Department of Education at www.studentaid.ed.gov or through FAFSA live chat. Free help is available any time during the application process. You should never have to pay for help.

Collect the documents needed to apply, including income tax returns* and W-2 forms (and other records of income). A full list of what you need is at www.fafsa.gov. Tax return not completed at the time you apply? Estimate the tax information, apply, and correct information later.

Complete the 2014–2015 FAFSA SM between Jan. 1, 2014, and June 30, 2014 (no exceptions to either date!). BUT, apply as soon as possible after Jan. 1 to meet school and state aid deadlines Apply online at FAFSA on the Web SM (the faster and easier way) by going to www.fafsa.gov.

Within a few days, the U.S. Department of Education will send you your Student Aid Report (SAR)—the result of your FAFSA. Review your SAR and, if necessary, make changes or corrections and submit your SAR for reprocessing. Your complete, correct SAR will contain your Expected Family Contribution (EFC)—the number used to determine your federal student aid eligibility.

The college or career school that you plan to attend might request additional information from you. Be sure to respond by any deadlines, or you might not receive federal student aid.

All applicants: The college or career school will tell you how much aid you can get at that school. Contact the financial aid office if you have any questions about the aid being offered. First-time applicants: Review award letters from schools to compare amounts and types of aid being offered. 

Attention Kentucky residents

It is highly important that you complete your FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1^st.  The College Access Program and Kentucky Tuition Grant run out quickly.