Tips for Completing the 2012-2013 FAFSA
Go to www.fafsa.gov to complete the FAFSA online.
Before you begin the application use the links on the site to:
- Determine if you are a dependent or independent student.
- Apply for your Federal Student Aid PIN to sign your application electronically.
- If you are a dependent student have your parent apply for a Federal Student Aid PIN.
- Get the Federal School Code for the all the schools you are applying to.
When competing your application:
- Use your full name as it appears on your social security card.
- Read all questions carefully. “You” refers to the student, not the parent.
- Males between the ages of 18 and 25 should be registered with Selective Services. If not registered, you may register using the FAFSA.
- If your 2011 taxes are not completed, you may estimate your income. Be sure to select that you “will file.” Once your income taxes are complete you should correct the estimate with the actual information using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool.
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Your parent(s) must complete their section if you are a dependent student.
Please Note: The U.S. Department of Education defines a parent as your biological or adoptive mother or father. A stepparent who is married to the parent you lived with during the past 12 months is also considered a parent. Grandparents, foster parents and legal guardians are NOT considered parents.
Before you submit your FAFSA, print a copy of your summary page and check it for accuracy.
After you have submitted your FAFSA, print a copy of your confirmation page.
Keep all copies in a safe place.
Visit www.fafsa.gov to check on the status of your financial aid application.
