Check out the deadlines for submitting the FAFSA at www.fafsa.ed.gov/before003a.htm#federal_aid. The FAFSA is a long application, so you should give yourself plenty of time to complete the process. Also, verify that your school is accredited before you apply.
Gather all documentation that establishes your financial status and identity. This should include your Social Security number, driver's license, W-2 forms, federal income tax returns and bank statements. Go to www.fafsa.ed.org and click on "Determine Your Dependency Status" under "Before Beginning a FAFSA" if you need help determining your dependency status. This will determine whether or not you need to provide some of the above documents for your parents as well. Alternatively, call 1-800-4-FED-AID with questions about your dependency status if you do not have Internet access when applying.
Fill out the FAFSA. Go to www.fafsa.ed.gov to apply online, or call 1-800-4-FED-AID to request a paper copy. Most schools also maintain paper copies. The easiest and quickest way is to apply online. There's also a PDF version you can print and fill out and then mail in. Be sure to read the three steps on the home page, which provide vital information as how to fill out the FAFSA. The site provides many worksheets to help you determine how to answer the questions before you fill in the information online.
Check the status of your completed application. According to the Federal Student Aid Website, once you complete the FAFSA, you will be able to check the status of the processed application one week after submission if you submitted electronically and two to three weeks after submission if you mailed your signature page.
Your school of choice will determine the amount of funding you will receive after reviewing your approved financial information from the FAFSA. They will notify you of the amount, and they will be using that money to cover your expenses, such as tuition and books. Any remaining funds are given to you to use for other expenses.