When is the FAFSA Due: Key Dates to Remember for College Funding
The deadline to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is June 30 at the end of the academic year at midnight Central Time (CT). It's important to note that each college and state may have earlier deadlines, especially when it comes to state grants.
More than a dozen states award state grants on a first-come, first-served basis until the funding is depleted. Another dozen have deadlines in December, January, February, and March, well before the start of the academic year. Always check the official websites of the programs to which you're applying for their specific deadlines.
Submit Early for Maximum Benefits
Each aid program has its own deadline. You want to file before the earliest of these deadlines because aid from a given program usually isn’t available if the application is received after the deadline. Generally, filing in February or early March is ideal, as this means your application is considered before the school term starts in August or September of the following academic year.
Key Dates to Remember
The FAFSA opens on October 1 every year. Therefore, your submission should be completed by October 5th. While it may seem extreme, many families underestimate the urgency and let time pass when they hear that there "is no deadline" and "there will always be aid available." This can be very misleading. Plan to submit as soon as possible to receive the maximum funds, and avoid any delays!
Create Your FAFSA Account Early
As soon as you have gathered all your necessary information, create your FAFSA account. About three days after your application, you will receive your FAFSA ID, which your parents can use to create their own ID and link it to yours. Many schools have an early deadline for merit scholarships, often by December 1. Therefore, it is advisable to file your FAFSA before this date to meet these early deadline requirements.
Ensure Compliance with College Deadlines
Financial aid offices set their own FAFSA filing deadlines for each academic year. Make sure your FAFSA filing matches up with the award year you are beginning. We frequently encountered situations where students used the wrong FAFSA and missed the deadline. For instance, students planning to attend the fall of 2020 should file the 2020–2021 FAFSA, which can be filed starting October 2019. Schools usually have deadlines beginning in December.
Conclusion
Failure to understand and comply with the FAFSA deadlines can result in missed opportunities for financial aid. Starting early, maintaining meticulous records, and staying informed about specific deadlines are crucial to ensuring a smooth financial aid application process. Always check the official resources and program websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.