Filing the FAFSA is one of the most important steps in unlocking financial aid for college and Red Kite is here to make it easier. Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve already submitted, here’s what to do now to stay on track.
Step 1: Filing the FAFSA (for those who haven’t filed yet)
Filing the FAFSA can feel intimidating, but it’s the key to unlocking federal, state, and even school-based financial aid. Start by gathering what you’ll need:
- Social Security number, 2024 tax documents, W-2s, bank statements, (yours and your parents’ if they’re contributing)
- A list of every college you’re considering applying to (even if you’re unsure, you can add or update later)
- Create your FSA ID early (it can take 1-3 days to verify) both you and a parent will need one
Once your FSA ID is verified and your documents are ready, it’s time to file your FAFSA! Select Start New Form and begin entering your information. The FAFSA takes time, and submitting early can give you access to the most aid possible.
If Your Parents Don’t Plan to Contribute
If your parents aren’t able or willing to help with college costs, you still need their information on the FAFSA unless you qualify as an independent student. That can feel frustrating, but remember: filling out the form doesn’t obligate them to pay, it just determines your eligibility for aid. Be upfront with your financial aid office if you’re in this situation; some schools have special circumstances forms you can complete to explain your situation and request a “dependency override.”
Red Kite Pro Tip: Review before you submit. Double-check income, household size, and college codes. Make sure your name, Social Security number, and date of birth match what’s on official documents. Small mistakes can cause big delays.
Step 2: After You File (for those who already submitted)
Already submitted your FAFSA? Great work! Now it’s time to focus on what comes next, from reviewing your Student Aid Report to tracking deadlines and comparing aid offers so you don’t miss out on funding opportunities.
Watch for Your FAFSA Submission Summary
After filing, you’ll get a Student Aid Report (SAR); a summary of your FAFSA. Review it carefully for mistakes. If anything looks off (like income, Social Security numbers, or school codes), correct it right away.
Check Communications from Colleges
Each college you listed will use your FAFSA to build your financial aid package. Log in to your application portals and keep an eye on email for requests (like tax documents or verification forms). Missing these could delay or reduce your aid.
Compare Aid Offers
When financial aid award letters arrive, compare more than just the total. Look at the mix of grants, scholarships, work-study, and loans. Some schools may offer more free aid while others lean heavier on loans.
Red Kite Pro Tip: When comparing financial aid offers, look at the net price: the total cost of attendance minus free aid like grants, scholarships, and work-study. For example, one school may list $30,000 in tuition but offer $15,000 in grants and scholarships, while another lists $25,000 in tuition with only $5,000 in free aid. The first school actually leaves you with the lower out-of-pocket cost.
Final Thoughts
Filing the FAFSA is an important milestone, but it’s only the first step in securing college funding. Red Kite guides you through the next steps so you can focus on discovering scholarships, tracking deadlines, and planning with confidence.
