What You Need to Know About the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to receiving financial aid for college! The Office of Federal Student Aid provides more than $150 billion in grants, work-study funds, and loans each year. Completing and submitting the FAFSA is free and quick, and it gives you access to the largest source of financial aid available to pay for college. In addition, many states and colleges use your FAFSA data to determine your eligibility for state and school aid, and some financial aid providers may use your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for aid.

Students and/or parents are invited to stop by the UM Student Aid Office anytime for free FAFSA preparation assistance. The 2017-2018 FAFSA launched on October 1, 2016 and can be found online at www.fafsa.gov. Students may also pick up paper worksheets in the UM Student Financial Services Office located on the 2nd floor of Palmer Hall. Due to the recent changes regarding FAFSA deadlines and rules, the 2016-2017 and 2017-2018 FAFSA will both be based on 2015 tax information, so you do not have to wait until after filing taxes for 2016 before filling out the FAFSA this year.

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