Applying for need based aid is an important component of the college application process. Each institution requests that you do so. I highly recommend that you apply even if you do not think your household is eligible for need-based aid.
1. Create a FSA ID
https://fsaid.ed.gov/npas/index.htm
Students need to create an ID in order to gain access to the Federal Student Aid’s website. This should be completed in the student’s name ONLY.
2. Complete the FAFSA after December 1.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid is available on or around December 1. Ten colleges or universities can be listed. (If you need to list more than 10, you will have to wait until after you receive an email stating that your FAFSA has been processed to add more schools.)
Please note that the FAFSA is to be completed in the student’s name. Many parents fill out these forms but it should be in the student’s name.
3. Check the Institutional financial aid deadlines. They will vary depending on if you are applying ED or Regular, etc.
Make a plan (create a spreadsheet) on when you need to apply for each school as per their website or call each Financial Aid Office. You do not want to miss a financial aid deadline. No question is silly. Ask the schools for clarification, if needed.
4. Check to see if any of the schools you are applying to ALSO ask that you complete the CSS Profile: https://cssprofile.collegeboard.org/
The College Board administers the CSS Profile and it is mostly used by private schools.
It asks for your financial history and information in more detail than the FAFSA. Again, check school websites to check for deadlines.
5. Last, when does your high school make their Scholarship/Awards Directory? Most do so in the early winter months. Make sure to know so you can apply for as many as possible.