How can I get parents more comfortable with the FAFSA process?
Educating parents on the importance of the FAFSA and explaining how it is used for private scholarships, state aid, and college scholarships in addition to federal funds.
How can I educate parents on the reasons why the FAFSA is important?
Debunking myths is often a great way to educate parents on the importance of the FAFSA, explaining how it is used for private scholarships, state aid, and college scholarships in addition to federal funds. Common myths about the FAFSA with correct answers are the appointment reminder sheet in the College Countdown MS Toolkit.
What if the parent cannot come to the FAFSA appointment?
With the new role-based experience, parents can do their own section on their own time. The parents will need either their own FSA ID to log into studentaid.gov to complete their section or click from the email request they receive from the student.
What information do the students need to have during the FAFSA appointment?
Their FSA ID (username & password), IRS Form 1040 (if they filed), access to their email and cell phone for verification codes, and the legal name/SSN/email of their contributors. For a list of information or document you may need to fill out the FAFSA form, visit FAFSA Filling Out the FAFSA Form | Federal Student Aid.
Can someone other than a parent attend the FAFSA appointment with a student?
For dependent students, only a biological or adoptive parent’s information can be used on the FAFSA with the student. The 2024-25 FAFSA role-based experience allows contributor(s) to complete their section of the form at a different time and location than the student. But remember, the form is not complete and submitted to the colleges until all contributor(s) have submitted.
Can the parent attend the FAFSA appointment instead of the student?
If the student cannot attend the FAFSA appointment, the student must be available via Zoom during the appointment. However, the new FAFSA experience will allow students to complete their section later.