Complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form online. Obtain a personal identification number and submit your Social Security number along with other sensitive information. Anyone looking for financial aid assistance must fill out this application. You and your parents will need to complete this form together. Independent students seeking financial help for college from the government will have to include their personal income.
Calculate your expected family contribution amount when filling out the FAFSA. Usually, it's important for undergraduate students in particular because the form helps determine your financial assistance from the U.S. government. Pull out the past year's tax forms from your parents. Their income will help determine your eligibility for free governmental assistance.
Look for grants based on your financial status. For instance, you may be eligible for a Federal Pell Grant. The award is based on your income, tuition costs, status as a full-time or part-time student and your plans to attend school for a full academic year or less. The U.S. Department of Education website provides more information on eligibility for Pell grants.
Apply for federally funded scholarships and loans. On Students.Gov, you will find an array of options depending on your intended field of study. Some are designed to help you repay loans, while others never need to be repaid. Follow the guidelines and meet deadlines, which tend to be in the fall or early spring.