You should also be aware of the deadline for submitting the FAFSA form since you don't want to miss it.
The federal deadline for the 2025-26 academic year is June 30, 2026, but you'll also need to check with your college and state to confirm their deadlines. You will want to have your FAFSA submitted before you begin the school year so you can get the aid you need to pay for your tuition.
Once your FAFSA is submitted, the government will typically process the application in three to five days, and you'll receive a copy of your student aid report (SAR), which includes your Expected Family Contribution (EFC). The EFC determines whether you can get a Pell Grant and is used by colleges to determine eligibility for student aid.
The Department of Education will send your information to the college you've applied to, and they'll use that information to make you an aid offer.
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