Determine if you are eligible to receive federal financial aid. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship, a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate, and a Social Security number. You must also attend an approved educational institution that participates in the federal loan program.
Look up the deadline for filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the school year during which you are applying for financial aid. Go to the FAFSA website to see both the federal deadline and the deadline specific to your state.
Gather the necessary documents to fill out the FAFSA. You will need your Social Security Number, driver's license and any records of income. If you are a dependent student, you will need your parents' financial records, as well a copy of their most recent tax return.
Complete the FAFSA. You may complete the online version, called FAFSA On the Web, or obtain a paper version from your school guidance counselor. You can also download the application to fill out and submit through the mail.
Await your Student Aid Report (SAR) from Federal Student Aid, which identifies your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). Federal Student will send your SAR information to the schools of your choice, and each school will determine your award package.