10/05/2026
Here's 3 helpful FAFSA tips most families find out too late:
1. Filing early matters more than you think.
Financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Two families with identical situations can receive very different packages based on when they filed.
2. It's free β and you can submit to up to 20 schools at once.
One form. Up to 20 colleges. No extra cost. There is no reason to wait.
3. Most families aren't prepared when they sit down to file.
Before you open the form, you'll need your FSA ID, Social Security number, past tax returns, your student's list of schools and more.