FORT KNOX, Ky. — The Free Application For Student Aid, or FAFSA, is a vital first step for not only securing financial aid, but also becoming eligible for scholarships, grants and work study programs.
Here’s why completing the FAFSA application should be your first priority when pursuing higher education.
Unlock Your eligibility for federal, state and local financial aid
The primary reason for completing the FAFSA is to be eligible for consideration for federal financial aid. Regardless of your perceived eligibility, completing the FAFSA ensures that you are considered for all available funding options.
This includes grants like the federal Pell grants, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FESOG), Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant and Teachers Assistance for College and Higher Educations Grant (TEACH): https://fsapartners.ed.gov/knowledge-center/fsa-handbook/2023-2024/vol7/ch1-student-eligibility-pell-grants-iraq-and-afghanistan-service-grants-and-children-fallen-heroes-awards.
Access to state and institution aid
In addition to federal funds, many states and colleges require FAFSA to determine eligibility for their own grants and scholarships.
Some institutions also use the FAFSA information to develop a comprehensive financial aid package: https://studentservices.ncsu.edu/finances/scholarships-and-financial-aid/types-of-financial-aid/scholarships/#OSFA.
Scholarships that rely on FAFSA information
Some scholarships including those from private donors, foundations, and corporations require a completed FAFSA to determine how much aid a student may receive. These scholarships may be based on a chosen field of study, academic achievements or extracurricular involvements. Many of these awards are based on financial need.
The FAFSA serves as the primary tool used to verify that need, making an essential step in expanding your eligibility for a broader range of scholarship opportunities. Go to https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/paying-for-college/articles/private-scholarships-to-help-you-pay-for-college for additional information.
Maximize financial aid offers
Colleges and universities often use the information provided in your completed FAFSA to determine your total financial aid package, including institutional grants and scholarships.
Submitting your FAFSA early can improve your chances of receiving financial aid, as some funding is awarded on a first-come, first served basis, including scholarships. The best way to find out if your college has merit-based scholarships that have a FSFSA requirement check out the school’s financial aid websites.
Students can go to https://militaryfamilies.com/military-education/2025-list-of-scholarships-for-military-connected-students/. All can visit https://www.operationmilitarykids.org/scholarships-for-military-children-spouses-and-veterans/.
It’s free and easy
One of the greatest reasons to fill out the FAFSA is the process is free and accessible online. With step-by-step instructions, the form is designed to be user-friendly. While it may seem daunting at first, resources are available to assist you throughout, making the process easier to navigate. https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa.
Maintain eligibility for financial aid year after year
FAFSA must be completed annually, providing updated financial information to determine your ongoing eligibility for aid.
By submitting the completed form each year, you ensure continued access to essential resources such as scholarships, federal student loans and work-study opportunities, allowing you to focus on your education without the added stress of having to secure funding. https://studentaid.gov/help/which-fafsa-form.
Bottom line: The FAFSA application is an essential tool for securing the financial resources necessary to pursue your education. Beyond being a requirement for federal student aid, completing the FAFSA opens access to state funded programs and scholarships.
Don’t miss out – invest time now into completing your FAFSA to unlock the financial support you’ll need for your academic journey.
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Editor’s Note: This column is one of a monthly series of financial readiness articles designed to help personnel and their families better understand how to build their financial strength. Each column will appear sometime in the first half of the month.
Those who are planning to pursue a higher education should mark their calendars for Aug. 4. That’s when ACS Financial Readiness will offer a class called “Scholarship: Trail to Success” at 5 p.m. in the ACS office on 411 Eisenhower Ave., Building 1477. Counselors will cover FAFSA, accreditation, reviewing universities and colleges, and much more. Seating is limited – reserve your spot today by calling 502-624-8391.
Visit Fort Knox News at www.army.mil/knox for all of Central Kentucky's latest military news and information.
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