Students should first determine whether they have single-dependent status by completing the Dependency Status Worksheet on the FAFSA website (see References section). FAFSA decides your status based on information such as age, marital status and the type of degree you would like to pursue.
Before you begin your FAFSA application, gather specific documents that will be required during the application process. Students must have their social security number, driver's license (if they have one), W-2 forms and any other records of money earned from the previous year, Federal Income Tax Return from the previous year, untaxed income records from the previous year and current bank and investment records. Dependent students must also provide their parents' Federal Income Tax Return from the previous year. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need your alien registration or permanent resident card. The FAFSA website offers an organized checklist of these documents (see References section).
The FAFSA website offers a printable version of the FAFSA application. You can print the application and write in your answers, then transfer the information when you complete the FAFSA electronically on the website (see References section).
During the application process, you will be asked to provide federal school codes associated with the institutions for which you are applying. You cannot receive aid at schools whose codes you have not provided. Search or verify a federal school code through the "Federal School Code Search" on the FAFSA website (see References section).
FAFSA requires that you and your parents sign the application electronically using a four-digit PIN number. The electronic application offers you an opportunity to apply for PIN numbers during the application process, but you can also do so by applying at the Federal Student Aid PIN website (see Reference section). Federal Student Aid processes your application only after both you and your parents have signed the application with your assigned PIN numbers.