FAFSA Eligibility: What You Need to Know

If you’re planning to go to college in the US, the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the first step toward getting money for tuition, books, and living costs. But before you start the form, you have to make sure you meet the basic eligibility rules. Below we break down the main requirements in plain language and give you a quick checklist.

Who Can Fill Out the FAFSA?

Anyone who is a US citizen or an eligible non‑citizen (such as a permanent resident) can apply. If you have a refugee or asylee status, you’re also covered. International students who aren’t permanent residents cannot use the FAFSA for federal aid, though some schools may offer institutional aid that uses the same information.

Age and enrollment status matter too. You must be enrolled or planning to enroll in an eligible program at a college or career school that participates in federal aid. This includes associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and most vocational programs. Part‑time students can qualify, but the amount of aid may be lower.

Financial and Dependency Requirements

Financial need is the engine that drives most aid. The FAFSA looks at your (and, if you’re a dependent student, your parents’) income, assets, and household size. There is no strict income cutoff, but higher earnings usually mean less need‑based aid. The formula also considers taxes paid, untaxed income, and savings.

Dependency status determines whose information you provide. Most students under 24 are considered dependent unless they meet one of the following criteria:

• Married
• Veteran or active‑duty military
• Have children or dependents who live with you
• Are an orphan or ward of the court
• Are homeless or at risk of homelessness

If you’re independent, you only report your own income and assets. If you’re dependent, you’ll need your parents’ tax returns, W‑2 forms, and any other income documents.

Other Must‑Have Items

To complete the FAFSA you’ll need a valid social security number (or an IRS‑issued taxpayer ID for eligible non‑citizens). You also need to create an FSA ID—a username and password that let you sign the form electronically.

Finally, you must be enrolled or accepted for enrollment by the start of the academic year you’re applying for. Most schools open their FAFSA windows on October 1 for the upcoming school year, so submit early to avoid delays.

Quick Eligibility Checklist

• US citizen, permanent resident, refugee, or asylee
• Accepted into an eligible school program
• Meet dependency criteria (or have parental info ready)
• Social security number or valid taxpayer ID
• FSA ID created for electronic signature

Cross‑check each item before you start the form. If anything is missing, you’ll likely hit a roadblock that forces you to pause and gather more paperwork.

Tips to Boost Your Chances of Getting Aid

Even if you meet the basic rules, a few simple actions can improve your award amount. First, file the FAFSA as soon as possible—some aid runs out early in the year. Second, make sure all numbers are accurate; a typo can lower your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) calculation. Third, keep records of any untaxed income, such as child support or veteran benefits, because those can affect your need calculation.

Lastly, don’t forget to fill out state‑specific aid forms if your state offers additional grants. Those often have separate deadlines but use the same FAFSA data, so you won’t have to redo the whole process.

Understanding FAFSA eligibility is the foundation for getting the financial help you need for college. Follow the checklist, gather the right documents, and submit early. With the basics covered, you’ll be in a strong position to secure the aid that makes higher education affordable.