College is not an expense, it is an investment. Though pricey at times, it is not an investment that needs to be taken on alone. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, commonly referred to as FAFSA, is structured to allow students the opportunity to receive aid including grants, work-study funds and loans. FAFSA is needed each year for federal aid and is available for U.S. and eligible non-U.S. citizens.
By simply filling out the FAFSA application form each year, you are able to unlock a whole new world of possibilities. Contrary to popular belief, most students DO qualify to receive aid even if they believe otherwise.
TIP: Apply for FAFSA anyway! You never know until you try.
It’s important to know how much aid you can receive but it’s even more important to have a realistic vision of how much your college experience will cost. That’s why the new net price calculator was built; to help parents and students calculate the cost of college.
Just like in life, the early bird gets the worm! Applying early has a range of benefits. Click here to read more about just why you should apply for FAFSA as soon as it opens.
Now, we know what you’re thinking; what do you need in order to file.
Before you begin your application process, it is imperative that you have the following documents on hand:
- 2023 Tax Returns (for you and, if applicable, your parents)
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Alien Registration Number
- Bank Statements and Other Financial Records
Once you have your documents ready, you’ll need to create your Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID if you don’t already have one registered. Both you and your parent/guardian will need an FSA ID to sign your FAFSA!
All that’s left is following us on social media @tarletonbound for tips and reminders about FAFSA, financial aid and scholarships!
2025 FAFSA APPLICATION TIMELINE
Tips From Texans:
- Ask for help. The Office of Financial Aid at TSU is always available to answer questions and assist in any way possible. (provide contact card for Financial Aid)
- Submit your application as early as possible!
- Don’t put it off because it’s actually super easy!
- Apply for scholarships! There is unclaimed money out there available to incoming and current students to help them further their career. Don’t sit on the sidelines and let the money slip away from you.
- Don’t stress! If you don’t know what something means, you have parents and friends to help.
Now we are fully aware that this blog probably didn’t address EVERY SINGLE QUESTION you might have about paying for college. That’s okay though because here at Tarleton State, there is no shortage of resources for students and parents looking for financial assistance.
Here are links to all of your favorite financial aid blogs:
We also recommend checking out the Texan Smart Financial Education Center for more information about how to pay for your education and life post-grad. For more information about Texan Smart and their various services, click here.
For more helpful tips, tricks and updates about FAFSA, follow @federalstudentaid on social media!