If you choose to apply for federal student aid (which we recommend you do), you need to complete and submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as you can - following the 1st of January. The schools to which you apply will use the FAFSA results to build an award package for fall of that calendar year and for spring of the next calendar year. (If you take classes during an abbreviated term, like summer, check with the school to find out how financial aid may apply).

You will also need to complete and submit the FAFSA for each subsequent year that you attend school.

The government accepts and processes FAFSAs well into the summer, but your prospective schools will have more aggressive timelines. Find out financial aid deadlines ahead of time and plan accordingly. (Note: It is not uncommon for schools to require additional forms, as well.)

The graphic below illustrates the FAFSA submission cycle:

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