Go to the FAFSA Web site, where you can submit your application online. Follow the three steps outlined on the first page of the Web site.
Gather the documents you will need beforehand, including your Social Security card, bank statements, investment records, income tax returns and your driver's license. You will also need to provide some of this information regarding your parents as well.
Fill out the FAFSA application online. A "Help" application is accessible for most fields on each page should you need it. The system evaluates your answers and automatically skips questions that will not apply to you. You may save your application and return to it later.
Submit the application electronically after you have completed it.
Check the status of your application at least once between one and three weeks after submitting it, which is recommended by Federal Student Aid.
Wait for Federal Student Aid to process your application and send your Student Aid Report (SAR) to you. You can view your SAR online when your application has been processed. Your school will use this information to determine your award amount for loans and grants.
Keep in contact with your school's financial aid office to learn what financial aid you have been awarded. Your school will determine if you are eligible to receive a Pell Grant based on the information you provided in your SAR.
If you are awarded a Pell Grant, the school will either apply it to your outstanding balance or pay the total amount directly to you. Usually, the school will credit the grant to your account and pay you any remaining funds that are left over.