Gather the information you'll need to fill out your aid applications. This includes your tax information from the previous year, as well as your social security number, date of birth and contact information. You'll also need this information for both of your parents if you're under 24, or your spouse if you're married. You should also find out the school code for each college you might attend. Contact the school directly for the code.
Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. A link to the Federal Student Aid website can be found in the resource section below. The FAFSA provides financial aid and government grant money to students with financial need. Filling out a FAFSA can also help you receive a lower rate on a government-provided student loan.
The colleges you might attend may require you to fill out the College Board's CSS/Financial Aid Profile, located in the resource section below. The College Board is a nonprofit organization that helps students find financial aid for college. Contact the schools directly to find out if you should fill out this application.
Visit the financial aid Web page for each college you might attend. Colleges usually have financial aid applications you can fill out and submit to possibly receive aid directly through the school. This aid is typically based on financial need. You can either submit the form online or bring it to the college's financial aid department.