As you and your family take the next step toward higher education, securing financial aid is one of the most important parts of the process. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is not just another form, it’s the gateway to unlocking grants, scholarships, work-study jobs, and low-cost federal student loans that make college and training programs affordable. 

Here’s what students and families need to know to get started and make the most of every opportunity available. 

1. File the FAFSA: Your First Step Toward College Funding 

You must complete the FAFSA to unlock virtually all forms of financial assistance for college. It determines eligibility for: 

  • Grants: Free money that never has to be repaid (like the Federal Pell Grant) 
  • Federal Student Loans: The safest loans with the lowest interest rates and most flexible repayment plans 
  • Work-Study: Money you earn through part-time jobs on or near campus 

The FAFSA is available online at www.StudentAid.gov 

FAFSA Dates to Know: 
The 2025-26 FAFSA opened in November 2025 
The priority deadline for Massachusetts is May 1, 2026, but each college may have its own earlier deadline.  Always check the financial aid page for each school to make sure you don’t miss out on available funding.  

2. Gather Your Documents: What You’ll Need to Complete the FAFSA  

Before you start, it helps to have everything ready. Here’s a checklist of what students and families should gather:  

FAFSA Document Checklist:  

  • Social Security number (or ITIN if you are not a U.S. citizen)  
  • 2024 tax returns and W-2 forms (if entering income information manually)  
  • Records of untaxed income, such as child support, disability benefits, or pensions  
  • Current bank account balances and any investment information  
  • List of colleges or career training programs you’re applying to (up to 20 can be listed online)  

Having these items handy will make the process smoother and help ensure accuracy. 

3. Get Your FSA ID 

Before you can start the FAFSA, both the student and at least one parent or guardian (for dependent students) need to create an FSA ID. This is a username and password used to log in, sign forms electronically, and access federal student aid websites. 

Here’s what to know: 

  • Each person must have their own FSA ID with a unique email address. 
  • Verification can take 1–3 days. 
  • Parents without a Social Security number can now create an FSA ID through an alternative verification process. 
  • Keep your FSA ID safe—you’ll use it every year. 

Important: Everyone who provides financial information, a contributor (usually a parent or guardian) must give consent for their tax data to be securely pulled from the IRS. Without this consent, the FAFSA cannot be processed, and no federal aid will be awarded. 

4. File Early – Don’t Wait for Acceptance Letters 

You don’t need to wait until you’ve been accepted into a college or training program to complete the FAFSA. Just list the schools you’ve applied to. You can include up to 20 on the online form. 

Financial aid is still often awarded on a first-come, first–served basis, especially for state or college-specific grants. Many state and college programs have limited funds, so submitting early helps ensure your application is considered for all available aid. Be sure to check each school’s priority deadline, which may vary. 

5. Proofread Carefully Before Submitting 

The new FAFSA is shorter, but accuracy remains critical. Even small mistakes can cause delays. 

Before submitting, double-check: 

  • Round to the nearest dollar. Don’t use commas or decimal points, always round numbers to the nearest dollar. 
  • Double check all Social Security numbers and birth dates are correct. 
  • Marital status reflects your situation the day you sign. 
  • Parent information: For divorced or separated parents, include only the custodial parent (the one who provides most support) and their current spouse, if remarried. 
  • School codes: List all colleges you’re considering with their correct Federal School codes. 
  • Required questions: Answer everything fully; don’t leave blanks. 

Taking a few extra minutes to proofread can prevent weeks of delay in processing your financial aid. 

6. Financial Aid Is Based on Need – Not Grades 

It’s a common myth that only students with perfect grades receive aid. In reality, most financial aid is based on financial need, not GPA or test scores. 

The largest amounts of funding, like Pell Grants and other need-based programs, are designed to support families who need help paying for education. 

The Bottom Line 

Filing the FAFSA is one of the most important steps students and families can take to make college or career training affordable. The process is faster and simpler than ever, but it requires getting started early and providing accurate information. 

Remember: 

  • You must complete the FAFSA every year your student is in school. 
  • Submitting early and carefully gives you access to more options. 
  • Comparing offers helps you choose the best path forward.
     

BGCB is here to help you every step of the way. If you need assistance, contact your Club’s College or Career Pathway Manager for guidance on FAFSA completion, scholarships, and next steps.