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How to Find Out What I'm Eligible for on My FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid form provides the basis for a number of financial aid programs available to students, the most prominent of which is the Pell Grant, worth $5,550 for the 2010-2011 academic year. A completed FAFSA form will generate a Student Aid Report that features a number called the Expected Family Contribution. The EFC is used by the school's Financial Aid Office to determine a package of financial aid from federal, state and local resources.

Previous year's income tax return (dependents will require parental tax return)
Alien registration number (for eligible noncitizens)
Social security number

Instructions

- 1
  Complete the FAFSA form online (see Resources). Determine your dependency status with the online checklist first, as you may need your parents' tax information to complete this step. Apply for a Personal Identification Number, or PIN.
- 2
  Check the Expected Family Contribution score that is generated after your FAFSA application is completed. FAFSA applications submitted online with a PIN may be available within one week.
- 3
  Compare the EFC with the Pell Grant Payment Information schedule for the current year (see Resources). Note that the Pell Grant payment varies for full- and part-time attendance.
- 4
  Contact the Financial Aid Office at your college or university for more detailed information on other financial aid opportunities.

How to File a FAFSA as an Independent

How to Change FAFSA Information