What the FAFSA does, how grants fit into federal student aid, and where to check current award rules.
FAFSA is an application
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the federal application used to request federal student aid. States, schools, and some other aid providers may also use FAFSA information. The school reviews the information and sends an aid offer; the form itself is not an award promise.
Student aid comes in several forms
Federal student aid can include grants, work-study, and loans. Grants generally do not need to be repaid, subject to program terms and limited circumstances. Work-study is money earned through a job. Loans are borrowed funds that must be repaid.
Examples of federal grants
Federal Student Aid currently lists Pell, FSEOG, and TEACH grants. The programs have different audiences and requirements. Some funds depend on school participation or available funding; TEACH includes a teaching service requirement. Review the official current-year grant pages before relying on amounts or rules.
Complete the right form and check dates
Submit the FAFSA for the school year you plan to attend, and check both school and state deadlines. Some states or schools require additional steps. Use the official StudentAid.gov site and do not pay an unauthorized third party to submit the FAFSA for you.
Review the offer carefully
Ask the school to explain any item you do not understand. Separate gift aid from work and loans when estimating your remaining cost. Schools make final aid decisions; online estimates and general matching tools do not.