3 FAFSA secrets to help you get the most financial aid

[@meedwards5]

5:45 yes you really should apply! My husband and I thought we would make too much money for our daughter to qualify for any aid and it turned out she got enough scholarship money to pay for an entire year of school, including books room and meal plan. ❤

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Scholarships make all of the difference!

[@kimvisser2766]

Gosh I wish I had found your video years ago! So so helpful!

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Glad it was helpful!

[@craigwilcox2264]

I was a 32-year-old homeless US Army veteran, and they wanted my parent's income information in graduate school. I'd never been asked for that at my undergraduate school. It reduced my student aide so severely that I could never afford housing and lived in my car through my entire MS degree.

[@katherinecaba7984]

😢

[@BenWorthington438]

No GI bill? I wonder why.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

That's crazy! I've never heard of that! Kudos to you for getting through it. Thatt is impressive.

[@Hbxbw]

@@BenWorthington438anything not honorable discharge no have gi bill. But doesn’t matter he throw the bct. He joined army. He is ready to die for this country. No matter what mistake he made during his service

[@BenWorthington438]

@@Hbxbw tell congress

[@candacep778]

Great video. You do such good work! Can you give an example of a college that provides “Gap” funding? I’d love to see if I can direct my kids!

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

It can be called different things at different schools, but here is an example: www.albemarle.edu/costs-paying-for-college/types-of-aid/foundation-scholarships/gift-aid-program-scholarship/

[@ec5318]

Is gap funding the same as merit scholarship? Thanks.

[@kidsongable]

@@TheScholarshipSystem

[@mb63gts66]

Glad to have found you, wish we would have years ago. Do you have any videos on how current college students can apply for scholarships? Both of my kids received scholarships, however, they went to a local CC and will be graduating with their AA degrees soon. We're looking for info on how to fund their BA pursuits and ensure if the application process works any differently than the process we followed while they were still in HS as well as tips/tricks to get funding.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

This article may be helpful: thescholarshipsystem.com/blog-for-students-families/how-to-pay-for-college-as-a-transfer-student/

[@markharper3259]

Hello. I am a pastor and I am given a housing allowance and as a result, I have a lower salary. Is there anything I need to know in entering these items into my daughter's FASA? Thanks for your help.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

The housing allowance should be entered as untaxed income in the parent's section of the FAFSA application. It will be considered as income for FAFSA purposes.

[@backflipjeffery]

Helpful. Thanks

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Glad it was helpful!

[@isaiah8488]

I got over 2 grand in my bank account because of this 😊.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Student assets are weighed more heavily than parent assets on FAFSA. So something to be aware of, before filing next year's FAFSA form.

[@pinkwheat]

Hi, thanks for all the videos! Do you have any tips to help save tuition costs for a 49yr old on disability going back to school?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

After receiving financial aid award letters, appeal to the school's financial aid office for additional aid. Make sure to watch our videos on tips to appeal for more aid!

[@thebossman60]

Awesome video thank you

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@cjjohnson7801]

This was very helpful

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@harrietrapista7106]

What about as parent remarried but not yet living with new spouse until senior son graduates high school? Do I have to invite new spouse as contributor? I don’t see a way around it on the website.

[@shalomshalom1000]

Thank you for the information 😊

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

My pleasure 😊

[@woodslionell83]

If you're on SSI file for financial aid latradetrch college

[@louiesanchez4720]

Great video! Thank you

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Glad you liked it!

[@berniceginyard7339]

I retired in Oct of 2022 and my husband was already retired. We both have pension would this change our fafas form?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Pension income is reported on FAFSA via your tax return. If it shows up as income in your tax return, it will be considered for FAFSA purposes.

[@amnaraza-p9u]

I want to apply for fafsa & holding a bachelors degree outside USI m now a stay at home mom n hv a baby I m curious if fafsa will give me grants other then helping me for tuition fee of my program I want to enroll into

[@moisegasigwa8256]

Hi,am from Africa but I live in ky. I submitted fasfa when I was a senior in high school,but some how I didn’t receive anything and my parents don’t make a lot of money.i don’t know if I submitted something wrong,but my question was is there like a number to reach out to fasfa and see what is wrong or even if there is a way for you to help me would be better.thanks

[@delmacorona2615]

Great video!! I am separated, but not legally divorced, filing separate, we live in two different states. Does my senior father need to file fafsa as a contributor?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

For students whose parents are divorced or separated, the Custodial Parent on FAFSA will be the parent who provides the most financial support.

[@iveyd8327]

If father and mother are divorced and father refuses to pay for any college - mother is residential parent who child lives with - is there any way to show this circumstance in FAFSA or is al this something to be appealed with individual school? Thank you for this great video. It’s very informative and helpful!

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

The parent who provides the most financial support will be the parent reporting on FAFSA. Additional financial aid appeal can be done with the school directly, after the financial aid award letter is received.

[@epicmomstravel]

exactly what I was wondering as well! thank you!

[@kindree5414]

If my tax preparer didn’t report my earnings and still listed me as a dependent under my parents (I’m assuming because I didn’t make much), do I still put down how much I made when asked about my 2023 earnings on the 25-26 Fafsa form even though it is not reported on taxes?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Yes. Even though you didn't file taxes, you still earned that money and (most likely) received a W2 form.

[@kindree5414]

@@TheScholarshipSystem Okay thank you. Did he not file cause I didn’t make that much?

[@megancove7922]

I am an US citizen and file taxes but by husband is a non residential alien? Do we have to share his income/assetts?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Yes. FAFSA looks at married parent's financial information, regardless of tax filing status or immigration status. (Nonresident aliens residing/working in the US should be filing taxes with an ITIN#.)

[@megancove7922]

my husband doesnt earn any money in US tho? only in a foreign country. @@TheScholarshipSystem

[@danaclark1237]

Please explain where I can find more info on the Gap scholarships you mentioned.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

You would want to contact the financial aid department at the college(s) you are looking at. Not all colleges offer gap scholarships (and it might be called something different at different schools) but it is always worth looking into.

[@kindree5414]

Hi! In California, the only grant a master’s student can receive is the State University Grant. When I apply for Fafsa and it asks me my assets, is there a limit for how many assets I can have to get the state university grant? Meaning, how much would be too much money in my banl account and would prevent me from getting the state university grant? Thank you!

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

It depends. Most aid is awarded based on the SAI, not asset value alone. SAI takes into account income too, so there is no limit amount for assets.

[@DonnaFlanagan-e3u]

I have a hard of hearing student going into her senior year of college. Do you have any scholarships available for students with disabilities? So far we have received no help for the first 3 years. We didn't realize there was resources like this as her high school was not the best. Thank you

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

This article may help: thescholarshipsystem.com/blog-for-students-families/22-scholarships-for-students-with-learning-disabilities/

[@saul_bloom]

Can't do October or November because they say 2025-26 not available until December 1 this year. Is this really late based on past years?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Last year, with the new format, FAFSA launched December 31. This year it is expected to launch by December 1st.

[@amandaestes1978]

Thank you for the information. I’m confused about the deadline. I keep hearing that it will be available 12/1, but we submitted the student and parent sections in August 2024 and the status shows as “processed” on 8/19/24. We’re in Kentucky if that matters. Will we have to do something else on 12/1?

[@scottcroteau7375]

I went to fasfa site this morning saying December 1 2024

[@meganharrison1407]

I have probably somewhat of a unique question. I am getting ready to fill out the FASFA with my daughter who is a senior. Our family just recently finalized a divorce. My ex spouse earns a three figure income, but is not able to contribute in any way to my daughters schooling. I am the parent of primary residence, and with my first year teaching income, she would probably qualify for a lot of aid. How are we able to show that my ex spouse is unable to contribute due to massive amounts of debt and fraudulent practices. The government is about to start garnishing his wages for his student loans that have not been paid back. I am very concerned that this is going to hurt my daughter chances at funding her own education!

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

You'll have to submit the FAFSA using the most correct information that it's asking for - then you'll want to follow up with her financial aid office and file an appeal to have her financial aid based on your current situation.

[@CharlesFosterMalloy]

3 figure income ?

[@georgebaileysgal5718]

Wow- Thank you for this video. I am new to all of this. Trying to help my daughter. Just learned that FAFSA form for the Fall 2024 year is not yet avail, but should be coming out SOON, sometime in Dec. Do you concur? Also, we are self employed, so it makes things just a touch more difficult. Any tips there? Thank you so much! So glad I found this video. Now to check out your vids on scholarships and everything else.... TY

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

We're glad you found us! FAFSA will be available by 12/31/23. Since you are a small business owner, you may need to appeal to the schools individually once financial aid award letters are sent out.

[@jessyor9024]

This is great information. I heard that we have to create accounts first ? This 2024 FAFSA might be open by December.

[@kindree5414]

Hi, I wanted to ask: What is the maximum I can have in my assets to receive the state university grant (the only grant I can get as a master’s student)? Meaning, how much is too much in my bank account and can prevent me from getting the state university grant? Thank you.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Every state is different. You will have to research your state's eligibility criteria.

[@lorenaperez9807]

My daughter was accepted in UCLA, USC , Berkeley , my husband and I we made 140k ( not her dad ) FAFSA told her us not elegible for any help it breaks my ❤ see her crying

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

FAFSA only awards federal based aid. Schools can provide additional state and school based aid. You won't really know the final financial picture until receiving the financial aid award letter.

[@Stingrey1977]

This system is sooo bad! Kill the dreams with of those who really want to go to college. Sad

[@idkmaybe5148]

140????? That’s a lot

[@christinaoverstreet2833]

​@@idkmaybe5148 maybe in some other states, but not in California

[@idkmaybe5148]

@@christinaoverstreet2833 oh true, cali is run by liberals, that’s why :/

[@GigiV-ij1iz]

hi thank you for your video, my son is 23 he lived all his life in mexico, now that he is back to the US, how can he apply for fafsa? i cant co sign so he will do it on his own, please advice we dont really understand the sytem. thank you for your help.🙏 😊😊

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

If your son is a US citizen or resident he can apply for FAFSA. This year FAFSA will open on December 1 for most families for the 2025-2026 school year. Parents need to submit information for students under 24 years old unless they qualify for an exemption. Even if parents don't have a social security number, their information needs to be included. Users without a SSN, or those with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), will need to manually enter their financial information since it can't be imported from the IRS.

[@leslietaylor7968]

my husband is older and receives Social Security check, daughter has also been getting money from social security. does that need to be listed or will that automatically come up on the 2022 taxes?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Most untaxed items have been removed from the FAFSA application. If Social Security is taxable and/or appears in your tax return, that will be reported to FAFSA since all tax return data will be imported and considered for FAFSA purposes.

[@CpT_PrInCeSs]

Hello, I noticed that community colleges vs universities work differently. I live in CA, at my university full time is considered 6+ units, and if i receive a dependent grant does that mean if I take 6+ units I will receive my full grant? At a community college full time is considered 12+ units.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Generally, full-time is considered to be at least 12 credit hours. However, every school can have a different requirement. It would be best to check with your school's financial aid office to get clarification.

[@JoannaLopez-i8b]

Hi, my son is finishing high school in MN and his parents (I'm mom) live in Mexico so financially we aren't able to help him. Do you know if there's more programs he might be eligible for? Maybe to help with paying for dorms? He is a US citizen Thanks!!

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Your son should still file FAFSA since he qualifies. Parents will still need a FSA ID even if they don't have a Social Security number. Additional explanations can be provided to the schools to see if your son may qualify for additional aid. Most outside scholarships may be applied to tuition and possibly room and board.

[@natusfreedom472]

Does fafsa, look at your parents income , prior year only or 2 years back ? Example if student is attending start college September 2024 , will the look at 2023 tax returns ? Thx u

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

FAFSA looks at prior-prior year. So for 2024 academic year, FAFSA would have looked at 2022 tax returns. For dependent students, FAFSA will also look at the parents income and assets.

[@StephanieFrey-db3yb]

This is my second year applying to FAFSA, (my kids are a sophomore and Junior transfer). This year I don't have access to update my total cash, savings and checking account, current net worth or my ex husbands information. Is this part of the new system? Also, my last name is spelled wrong and when I go to correct it it states this action will temporarily disable my application. Thank you for your help.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Corrections will be made available later in April. Some families don't need to report assets if their income is under a certain amount.

[@eshana3457]

I currently don’t work. Should I not go back to work. Would this help or hurt chances of assistance. I doubt will get any assistance husband makes to much.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

FAFSA uses prior-prior tax return information. So, for the 2025-2026 school year, FAFSA will use 2023 tax return information. 2024 income information would be used for the 2026-2027 academic year. Financial aid takes into account household size. Some schools award more aid than others. So even though you may not receive aid at one school, you may at another.

[@ndayembidi6781]

What about if you are online student. Can you still apply for this kind of financial aid?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

If your online school is a Title IV school, that means it accepts the FAFSA. You can check if your school participates here: fsapartners.ed.gov/knowledge-center/library/resource-type/Federal%20School%20Code%20Lists

[@ndayembidi6781]

@@TheScholarshipSystem thanks

[@AniyahJohnson-g9q]

Quick question what it the difference between regular financial aide and the Pell grant? Is it additional on top of regular financial aide? My reason for asking is because what if a person would have received more the regular financial vs just receiving the amount of the Pell grant? If you know what I mean? Just curious! Thanks, answering this question would help a lot!

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Pell Grant is a federal award which is a part of the financial aid package. FAFSA is the application to calculate if a student qualifies for federal awards AND it is sent to schools for them to see if students qualify for additional aid, including state and school grants.

[@AniyahJohnson-g9q]

⁠​⁠@@TheScholarshipSystemyes I’m saying does the Pell grant effect the amount you get within the financial aid package? Like are there instances where a person would have received more based upon the SAI score but was awarded the $7000 for the Pell grant (I read somewhere that that was the max for that particular grant). Is it additional within the financial aide packed or is it a replacement that puts you on a cap of what you can receive?

[@CpT_PrInCeSs]

I find your question very confusing. ​@@AniyahJohnson-g9q

[@loriegrove2531]

I have an account as a parent for my daughter and she has a separate log in account. Are they the same or should we just use hers?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

You will need two FAFSA accounts. One for the student and another for the parent.

[@tiffanyziegler]

Is there a way to get grant for a tech school ?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

As long as a tech school is accredited and they are not a for-profit school, they may qualify for FAFSA. Check with the school to see if they accept the FAFSA application.

[@yasb8194]

Is there anywhere to explain unusual circumstances, like substantial amount of healthcare costs, etc?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Not on FAFSA. Explanations or appeals would need to be done directly to the school AFTER financial aid award letters are received.

[@lesliemcwhirter4730]

When my child attends graduate school, do we file the FAFSA?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Yes - but they will mostly be eligible for just student loans.

[@moneciamenifee3603]

Is it better if my kids apply alone or I place my info instead (one of my daughters didn’t work but I also didn’t work much I don’t know). I have three kids, I placed it under me and two of my kids still had to get a small loans and I stilll had a balance to pay it killed me

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

All students need to report parents' information unless they qualify to be independent. Here is the website to determine if a student can be independent for FAFSA purposes. studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/filling-out/dependency

[@HoudaBeautyOfficielle]

thank you for the video, I loved it very much, and I want to know if a green card holder can fill out FAFSA? he's a person who just arrived in the US, he never filled out taxes, and already has a master's degree in chemistry in his home country, but wants to study MLT in a community college full-time. he's living with his cousin and has one income of about $2000 per month. so is he eligible and will he be able to get a grant to cover his studies??

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Yes a green card holder qualifies for FAFSA-federal funding. However, he may not qualify for state grants since he may not fulfill the state residency requirements yet. He could contact the community college's financial aid office for more guidance.

[@taraconrad510]

My daughter's SAI/EFC is said to be $4890. In Michigan we have the Michigan Achievement Scholarship if your EFC is

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

You might check with your school's financial aid office to ensure that they received your student's FAFSA information. Some schools had issues importing data with all of the changes that were done to FAFSA this year.

[@HelaineKorba]

Why doesn't FASFA have anything for a parent that has passed away? On my son's end, one of the questions was do your parents live together? He did not know how to answer that as his father passed away. Does FASFA calculate funds based on one or two parents?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

FAFSA takes into account parent's income - which could be one or two incomes, depending who works. Parents don't live together if one has passed away. Additional explanations can be sent to the school's financial aid office after a financial aid award letter has been issued.

[@analyortiz8907]

Do I need to have really low financial income in order to qualify?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Federal awards do have income limits to qualify. However, schools have ultimate say on other awards they can issue out. But they need FAFSA information to determine that.

[@Angela4D]

I need help getting my daughter in to college. She wants to live on campus and she was awarded fasfa... it doesn't pay out until oct. But classes start next week, how do we get her into housing when shes using financial aid to pay for it??

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

It would be best to talk to your daughter's school's financial aid office. FAFSA has caused many delays this year and most schools are understanding and have found ways to work with students.

[@shelissasmith6485]

Do you have to create an FSA ID account before filing out FAFSA?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Yes. Both student and parent need a FSA ID.

[@Janes247]

@@TheScholarshipSystem both parents or the tax filing parent in joint filing?

[@AncientOlives]

Hii I am unable to access 2023-24 fafsa form. whenever, i am trying to access form, the website shows that the form is not available we are working on the issue. do you have any idea? what's going on with website and why i am not able to access the form?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

FAFSA has been undergoing a lot of maintenance and updates because of the 2024-2025 changes. If you still have issues, you may consider contacting your school to see if they have additional guidance or an alternative application form.

[@watchandlearn23]

I change my change job into lower salary this year 2024.. how can I show that my income is lower now this year 2024.. thank you to your video I learned. Angelo

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

You will have to appeal to each school and let them know of your change.

[@cjjohnson7801]

Good question

[@ayouboubari8328]

I want apply for semster january and i want to know when i can apply for fafsa and also i have other question i live at state and i want to apply for college at other state is problem.for fafsa thanks

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

You can select up to 20 schools to send FAFSA information, regardless of where you live. However, some states prefer that you list your in-state school first to be eligible for state aid.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

For a January start date you should file FAFSA now since many schools have already processed aid for the 2024-2025 school year. Depending on the school, it may be too late for priority funding. Check with the school's financial aid office for deadline dates.

[@anastasiaclaude6217]

Hey I applied and received a response from my school, but when I applied I didn’t think I’d live on campus. How do I change that? Or is that even possible to revise?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

You will have to contact your school's financial aid office to see if they want you to update FAFSA or if the school can update it themselves.

[@mirandaswifte]

I went to the FAFSA site to start my form. It's Oct. 2024, and they have the form for the 24-25 year. They'll have a new one in BETA starting Dec. 1, by invitation, for the 25-26 school year. What do you recommend? My son will be entering college for the 25-26 school year. Thanks!

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

If he's entering school for the 2025-2025 academic year, you'll want to wait until the 2025-2026 FAFSA is ready. They've started rolling out the 2025-2026 FAFSA to select students (based on their school opting in to the Beta early), but hopefully, the application will open up to all students in December like they are aiming for.

[@wishingonatrackstar2034]

Hello, so my daughter decided she wanted to attend college and was accepted they sent her the email to fill out for FAFSA but they asking for information about 2022 tax returns I haven’t filed taxes for about 7/8 years what do you recommend?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

If they are asking for 2022 taxes, is this for 2024-2025 school year? You will have to contact the school's financial aid office to see if there is alternate documentation they can accept since the tax returns haven't been done to complete FAFSA.

[@tracimeyer-x2z]

My question is, my son is full time semester one, but feels like he needs to go part time semester two because he has a busier work schedule.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

You may have to contact your student's financial aid office to see how that would affect his financial aid since some scholarships and grants require students to attend full time.

[@bp6493]

Me and my wife are divorced. My son.primarily lives with his mother. When applying for aid does she supply her income information or is it mine too?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

For FAFSA, the parent that provides most of the support will be the parent filing the form. If a school requires the CSS Profile form, both parents report their income. See this link for more information on FAFSA parents. studentaid.gov/fafsa-apply/parents

[@abelalfaro5101]

Can we apply now, but what are the chances to get any help from the government for the 2024 -2025 school year?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Very high. This year FAFSA processing has been delayed. So many schools are just receiving student information. Most school's Financial Aid Award Letters have not been sent out yet.

[@ijeomakalu8924]

How can I add my spouse’s information after fafsa form is submitted

[@jamekathomas5120]

My daughter has a very specific in her type of school and major. She our scholarship search be as specific?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

You can make it specific but also consider searching for scholarships based on other factors - location, hobbies, sports, etc.

[@beniful9204]

Should you apply to colleges before FAFSA or the other way around? So confused

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Either is fine. FAFSA allows students to send information up to 20 schools where they intend to apply. If the student decides not to apply to a school, that won't be an issue since most schools won't look at the FAFSA information until AFTER a student has been admitted to the school.

[@beniful9204]

@@TheScholarshipSystem thank you!

[@Rohaworld452]

Hi my parents do not work currently I was trying to apply for FAFSA do they look at past year income and decide or this year

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

FAFSA takes into account prior-prior year. So for 2025-2026 school year, they will look at 2023 tax return. If there are any changes for 2024, you would need to talk to your school's financial aid office and they might make adjustments to your financial aid award package.

[@fame2394]

Does this work for high school?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Yes. For HS seniors attending college the following year.

[@ariabook6786]

My daughter live with her dad full time he taking care of her , her dad and me never married is her Fafsa application she should put my tax information? Thank you .

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Your daughter's dad would be the parent to file FAFSA.

[@camilaamorim701]

Hi, I have green card but I don`t have tax record in US yet. I just move in to US a month ago. Can I apply for FAFSA?

[@jenniffermontoya8042]

Same question here. Did you get it ?

[@lainiecottrell2445]

Why does the calculator not ask for parent income....just students income?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

If a student is independent, it may not ask for parent's income. Otherwise, dependent students will also be asked for parent income.

[@tonyjordan8583]

Hi….im applying for fafsa soon but didn’t file for some reason my 2021 tax returns. What do I do???? Do I have to file for fafsa? I have to mail in the returns which is gonna put me past my deadline

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

For 2024-2025 academic year, FAFSA requires 2022 taxes. Not 2021. So as long as 2022 taxes are done, you should be fine.

[@DebraMoore-r6p]

Hello, I haven't filed my 2022 tax return . I have to paper file now but my income has decreased significantly. What should I do

[@HannahRiggs-g2o]

how do l get disability money in USA?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Our content is for students attending college. You would need to look for disability resources for your state.

[@abelalfaro5101]

Good evening, Our son graduated in 2020 during the PANDEMIC. He graduated with 3.2 GPA and did not continue with the university. Now, he wants to continue with his education. Now, it is April 16 2024, should we wait until October to apply for FATSA for 2025 - 2026 fall year? He wants to start with a community college 2 years and university. What do you suggest? Thank you

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

It's still not too late to apply for the 2024-2025 school year. Many community colleges accept FAFSA until June or so! Contact the school's financial aid office for deadline information just to make sure.

[@maricarmen8776]

It is November and is not open yet!

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

This year it will be opening up on December 1st. Some families were invited to file earlier. But for the majority of the people it will open December 1.

[@kalofabread3342]

@@TheScholarshipSystemppl r saying fafsa is going to be unavailable for students because of trump, do you know if this is true?

[@nypinstripes2388]

@@kalofabread3342Yes, Trump is removing all financial aid and college must be paid for in full in cash. Are you serious? You need to surround yourself with smarter people and don’t be afraid to do some critical thinking. Wow.

[@JenniferBryan-Gredvig]

I have twins going to separate schools. Is there any help or relief for Mia's parent with twins?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Unfortunately, the new FAFSA does not consider multiple children in college. The Student Aid Index is for each individual child. However, an appeal can be done at the school level, and colleges can take that into consideration so that they consider awarding more aid.

[@DarlineKrystel]

Can I still apply for the FAFSA this October even though I'm done with high school

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Yes. However, FAFSA for the 2025-2026 school year, won't be open until December. It will be delayed again this year.

[@DarlineKrystel]

@@TheScholarshipSystem okay.... but I was hoping to begin school by January.... would it still be possible to apply and get any fundings

[@gelnyusa9299]

@@DarlineKrystel I have the same question…

[@gelnyusa9299]

@@TheScholarshipSystem if I want to go to school in January 2025, when should I apply for fafsa. Thanks for your time 😊

[@amarakanneh3840]

Are foreign students from Africa qualified for this process?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

No. FAFSA is for US residents and citizens.

[@jessielynnbenton]

I qualified for the max amount of fasfa but the school only allowed me to accept 2270 and then made me take the test in loans even though the fasfa would have almost fully covered the tuition they also wouldn’t let me take the full amount of loans to have money to live on is there anything I can do

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

You might want to contact your school's financial aid office to find out why there is a difference from FAFSA award amounts vs what the school offered you. You may want to appeal the offer and explain your situation.

[@onyinyefada6483]

Is FAFSA strictly for US citizen only

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

US citizens and residents.

[@daniraaleman3387]

I want my daughter to change it to independent because she is 18 now but she doesn’t have a job so if will affected her

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

It is not easy for an 18 year old student to be independent for FAFSA purposes. Here is more information. studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/filling-out/dependency

[@gabriellim8522]

If a rental property is under an LLC, does it have to be listed as an asset?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

If you are a member/owner of the LLC, yes.

[@AnitaHanjob69758]

Something I learned with the fafsa system is that I have to keep appealing. Appeal Appeal Appeal For 2023/2024 application FAFSA used my w2 from my active military duty in 2021. I was honorably discharged in 2023 and remained unemployed because I committed myself to college full time. Along with the GI bill. FAFSA said I made too much money with an annual salary of 28k in the marine corps (yes you heard that right, 28k is apparently too much money for FAFSA) and received 0$ for 2023/2024 aid, bummer . I did appeal and appeal providing my DD214 and termination paperwork which lowered my EFC. This year of 2024/2025 I’m going to get the full maximum student aid package after months of appealing to the Financial aid office. They made this a pain in the ass because of the EFC system they have in play.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

YES! That is great advice.

[@libertyrodriguez1355]

Does it matter where you live in order to get aid.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

US citizens and US residents qualify to apply for FAFSA, regardless of where they live. However, some states have additional criteria to qualify for state-based aid.

[@blancalorenzo5783]

Just got divorced, this will be my first year filling HH but I know FAFSA will ask for prior yr 2023 returns. Any suggestions?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

If you filed a joint return for 2023 you'll want to ensure that you indicate that on FAFSA so that you don't import the tax return information. You may need to manually enter in information for your part only.

[@joyss1042]

Can my cousin living in California be the legal guardian so my daughter can apply in financial aid in California?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Students need to prove residency to qualify for in-state financial aid.

[@kerele4843]

So just to clarify, do i apply for fafsa every year i’m in college?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

yes.

[@tasnubatabassum4466]

Hi. I am new here with my husband. I am eligible for fafsa but me and my husband doesn't have any tax history yet. So can I apply fafsa?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Yes. You will answer "no" to the question if you filed a tax return. Your school's financial aid office may have additional questions or documentations for you since you won't have a tax return. If you get stuck on the application, you can contact FAFSA for more guidance.

[@BridgetSzymanski]

My son applied for FASFA. Our income was determined by past year tax returns. But we’ve divorced since that return and my income has been drastically reduced, and he lives with me. What can we do to show that reduction in income?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

When there are changes to income, job, or other circumstances, the school's financial aid office should be notified to see if they might make adjustments. Check out our video on appealing financial aid. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iKaUaoiBq8d_j6Msi=_8DAFZEPEPKeQHQ8

[@haleighhowland]

Did I hear that correctly October of 2023 the application for 2024 will open?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

At the time of recording, the filing start date was October. However, the new FAFSA filing date is December 2023 for the 2024-2025 academic year.

[@estebancheca1882]

My daughter is a US Citizen (she lives in the US). My wife and I aren’t US Citizens (we don’t live in the US). She isn’t considered “Independent “ but, since we don’t live in the US, as we understand, she doesn’t qualify for many Financial Aid or Loans. Any suggestions on resources she can look to see her chances to be awarded Financial Aid or Loans?. We don’t have the resources to pay for all her financial needs to go through a Public University.

[@JohnUrban-ry1fx]

I will be receiving benefits from the Post 9-11 GI Bill to attend TUJ (Temple University Japan)in Tokyo in the Fall of 2024 and Kyoto in the Spring of 2025 . Benefits do not start until 1 Oct 2024. I received permission to live in an apartment In Tokyo because I am an older student but I must share that I received a small scholarship of 100,000 Y ($650) to transfer the second semester to Kyoto Campus . This is a huge opportunity to expand my educational experience as I study Communications in a very special setting and in brand new Facilities and at a new campus with different classes and unique cultural opportunities. I thought the scholarship would be able to cover other expenses but it is only for tuition. The problem is that I must maintain my apartment in Tokyo (ITS extremely hard to get an apartment) and the way the Bill works is it reduces the amount that's paid for tuition to allow for the scholarship to cover it first. My question is how will FAFSA benefit a Post 9-11 GI Bill veteran or how can I avoid this. I'm also one of the unlucky ones who paid $1200 into the Montgomery GI Bill. I forfeited this to use the Post 9-11 GI Bill .

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

FAFSA will calculate if you qualify for any federal aid such as Pell grants or subsidized student loans. So it seems that even if you do qualify for such aid, it wouldn't change your GI Bill issue any. The only way to possibly avoid this, is to apply for scholarships that awarded directly to students, but unfortunately, there are not many of those kinds of scholarships, since most are sent directly to the school.

[@jaiz1385]

How can i pass the identity/statement of educational purpose on the satisfactory requirements

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

We don't understand your question. Could you please resubmit? Are you asking about the FAFSA application? or a College Admissions application?

[@stephaniecook7080]

If a parent has to file for bankruptcy does that impact the child’s FAFSA outcome.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

It shouldn't. FAFSA takes into account parents' income and assets and student's income and assets. Debt and credit history aren't taken into account.

[@romiep9557]

We file tax jointly and we are married. When my wife fills out the FAFSA form, why is FAFSA inviting me also to the FAFSA application. I thought me and my wife need only one FAFSA account. Thank you

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Only one parent needs to file FAFSA if they file married filing jointly. Even though it invites you, it is not necessary to fill it out. It might still be a glitch with FAFSA. You could always contact FAFSA help desk for additional clarification or to report the "bug".

[@romiep9557]

@ I found this in fsapartNers.ed.gov MARRIED CONTRIBUTORS WHO FILED JOINTLY WITH THEIR CURRENT SPOUSE ARE BEING REQUIRED TO INVITE A NON-REQUIRED CONTRIBUTOR TO THE FORM (Added November 15, 2024; Workaround) New Status: Open Description: Currently, when a parent, or independent student, is married and filed their taxes jointly with their current spouse, they are being required to invite their spouse to participate in the form even though the spouse is not a required contributor. Workaround: Users will need to add their spouse’s information to continue through the form; however, the spouse will not be required to create a StudentAid.gov account, accept the invitation, or complete the application.

[@coachclaudiaweir2025]

If divorced for years and I provide most financial support, am I still the parent to apply for 2025-26 year?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Yes. You would be the parent to file FAFSA.

[@suroy76]

My son is a US citizen and grew up in India. We moved back when he was 3 years old. Will he qualify for fafsa scholarship

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Yes. He would qualify for FAFSA.

[@VictoriaClark-f2t]

Do we need to complete CSS if none of the scholo s applied to look at it?

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

No. Only certain schools require the CSS profile. You can see which schools require it here: profile.collegeboard.org/profile/ppi/participatingInstitutions.aspx

[@aperkins07]

I haven't seen fafsa ask for income, but only student assets which seems backwards to me. It would reward irresponsible financial behaviors that way

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

FAFSA uses the income information from the tax return that was imported, so it doesn't have any income questions.

[@duckling4393]

So, technically a billionaire's child can get a large financial package if he/she declares independent and works at a low paying job?

[@MaryEckel-i8f]

Derick Highway

[@estherwanjiru5297]

How is the financial information important

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Financial information is used by colleges to award financial aid to pay for college.

[@JUDGEMENTDAY66]

What about aged part time workers or jobless people trying to enhance their professional expertise by going into professional certification courses from universities of 3 /6/12 months courses wich run from $2500-$8000 and education institutes do not have grants or loans for thes.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

If these programs don't accept FAFSA applications, that means they don't receive or qualify for federal funding. Some state, have state funding available for worker training programs. Check with the Employment Security or Development office.

[@kclark0104]

Should you report more adults in household like my grandpa

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

Yes. Everyone in the household should be reported even though they may not be listed in the tax return.

[@kclark0104]

@@TheScholarshipSystem Will, they give you more money the more people, or that doesnt matter.

[@jay5729]

Can you fill out FAFSA earlier? We would like to start applying for scholarships this Summer and many require FAFSA forms.

[@TheScholarshipSystem]

FAFSA is filled out fall of senior year of high school and for every year in college. Unfortunately, FAFSA is not for other grade levels in HS.