Cost of attending college is a big driver in where a student goes to college. In some cases whether they even go to college!
An NCAN report recently said that in 2021 students left $3.75B in Pell Grants on the table by not completing FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
This is really sad!
So, make sure that you complete and submit your FAFSA Application. There are a number of resources online to help.
Here are 6 Common FAFSA Mistakes that Shveta Bagade, College Counselor discussed on a podcast recently, based on a US News article.
Prerequisite: You need a FSA ID before you can fill out your FAFSA application
Missing Deadlines. Be on top of submission deadlines for different states and colleges. While the application deadline is June 30, they can be a lot sooner.
Incorrect Social Security Number. If you have filled in a wrong social security number, you may have to file a new application to correct it!
List the Colleges You Plan to Apply to. If you want the colleges you plan to apply to, to receive your financial information, then you need to list them in the FAFSA application.
Changes and Modifications to the College List can be made only using a paper form.
Incomplete/Incorrect Legal Name. Your name on application needs to match government records - birth certificate, social security card, tax filings etc.
Changes to an incorrect name can be made using a paper form.
Forgetting to Renew FAFSA Every Year. To be considered for Federal student loans and grants, like the Pell Grants, the FAFSA application has to be submitted every year with your latest information.
Not Signing the Application. If you don’t sign your application, it is incomplete and hence will not be processed. Use the FSA ID to sign electronically.
So, to give yourself a chance to qualify for loans and grants, make sure that you complete and submit your FAFSA Application!
Listen to the Podcast on College News Fit to Digest. February 13, 2023. (12.3-Minute Listen).
All the Best!
Have a Great Week.
Venkat