👋Hey there, future college rockstars! 🌟 

🤔Are you ready to tackle the FAFSA like a boss? If so filing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) should be the first step on your college journey so let’s break it down into easy-peasy steps, so you can nail it without breaking a sweat! 🎓💸

Step 1: Get Your Stuff Together! 📚

Before diving in, gather your essentials. You’ll need your social security number, your parents’ tax information, bank/investment statements, and a list of colleges you’re eyeing. Think of it like packing for an epic adventure – you wouldn’t leave without your map and snacks, right?

Step 2: Create Your FSA ID 🖥️

Your FSA ID is like your literal key to the lock for the FAFSA. It’s a username and password that is used to access and sign your application. You and your parent both need one to complete the application. Pro tip: Make sure your email address is one you actually check and will have access to long after you graduate high school. You will need it to apply for the FAFSA every year you are in school so write it down and keep it somewhere safe.***Note: The FSA ID takes about 3 days to process before you can apply for FAFSA. Secure your FSA ID and wait until it has been verified before you begin the FAFSA application. Get Yours Here: https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id/create-account/launch

Step 3: Fill ‘Er Up! ✍️

Start your application on FAFSA’s Website. The new FAFSA (2024-2025) is role-based so the student should file their section first. Once you start, you will then invite your parents to join in the fun and complete their own section of the application. Remember to fill out all the questions, double-check your answers, and remember – honesty is the best policy.

***Note: You have 45 days from the time you start to complete your application or you’ll have to start over…. 🤷🏾‍♀️I don’t make the rules folks.

Step 4: Play The Waiting Game ⏰

Once you have submitted your application, you’ll have to wait for processing. Financial aid offers will start to roll in a little later because this new FAFSA needs a minute to get its life together. It’s rumored the data won’t reach the schools you chose until mid-March 🫢. While you wait, check to see if you qualify for any state aid and apply as soon as possible. Use this website to see what’s available where you are!

Step 5: Celebrate and Plan Ahead 🎉

Once you complete your application it’s time for a dance party!!! 🎉

Celebrate your wins, compare your offers, and plan out your next steps. Take a visit to all the contenders and get ready to make the decision of a lifetime!

And there you have it – FAFSA made easy. You’ve got this! Now, go forth and conquer your college journey! 🚀💰

Need more help completing your FAFSA? Grab my FAFSA cheat sheet to get a complete walkthrough of the entire FAFSA application: Get it here for $17.

Learn more about the author Mizz P. here!