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Each year, the federal government provides more than $150 billion in financial aid for college. To apply for this aid, you must complete the , also known as the FAFSA. While many students and parents fear that this is going to be countless hours of paperwork, it is quite easy if you know how to navigate the process.

Create an FSA ID

Log onto the Federal Student Aid website, , to begin the process. If you’ve never filled out the FAFSA before, you’ll need to set up an FSA ID. On the 2025–26 FAFSA form, every — anyone (you, your spouse, a biological or adoptive parent, or your parent's spouse) asked to provide information on the FAFSA — will need an FSA ID before accessing and completing their section of the form. The FSA ID (account username and password) allows students and parents to identify themselves electronically to access Federal Student Aid websites.

If you don't already have an FSA ID, you can Have key identifiers like parent birthdates and social security numbers handy. The website will walk you through the steps.

Parents: If you previously created an FSA ID as a student, you don't need to set up another one.

Gather Documents

To complete the FAFSA, you will need:

• Your Social Security number or Alien Registration number
• Records of nontaxable income, such as child support and veterans’ benefits
• Financial statements, including bank statements and investment records

Previously, filers could enter their tax information manually or use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool. Every contributor on the FAFSA must consent to share their tax information in the application so that the IRS can share this information with Federal Student Aid.

Note: If a student, spouse, or parent does not give permission, the Student Aid Index (SAI) will not be calculated, and the student will not be eligible for financial aid.

Add Your Choice Schools

Lastly, you'll need to add the name of at least one school to which you would like your FAFSA sent. You can search for the institution by city and state, or better yet, enter its Federal School Code. Florida Southern's Federal School Code is 001488. Using the code ensures we can access your information quickly and easily!

Review and Submit!

That's all! You should complete the entire form in about 30 minutes. Take a few minutes to review your information carefully, ensuring your name, date of birth, and social security number are correct. You can always go back and edit everything else at a later date. Submit it and wait to hear back about aid coming your way!

The has lots of great walkthroughs to guide you through the process. Be sure to check out their