Simplifying FAFSA: A Guide to Financial Aid Eligibility

 


The requirements to obtain student financial aid through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for students with U.S. residency or citizenship are as follows:

1.      U.S. Residency or Citizenship

o    You must be a United States citizen or a permanent resident with a valid green card.

o    Certain nonimmigrant visa holders, such as T visa holders, refugees, or asylees, may also be eligible.

2.      High School Diploma or Equivalent

o    You must have a high school diploma or have completed an equivalent program, such as the GED (General Educational Development).

o    Alternatively, you must have completed an educational program approved by the Department of Education.

3.      Enrollment in an Eligible Educational Program

o    You must be enrolled in or admitted to a higher education program at an approved institution (college, university, or technical school).

o    The program must be eligible for federal aid.

4.      Social Security Number (SSN)

o    Provide a valid SSN, except in certain limited cases (e.g., students from specific U.S. agencies).

5.      Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

o    Maintain adequate academic performance as defined by the standards of your educational institution.

6.      No Outstanding Federal Debts

o    You must not owe money on federal student loans or have defaulted on past payments.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

1.      Selective Service Registration (if applicable)

o    Male students between the ages of 18 and 25 must register with the Selective Service to remain eligible for aid.

2.      No Drug Conviction

o    Convictions for drug-related crimes while receiving federal student aid can affect eligibility. Rehabilitation may restore eligibility.

3.      Demonstration of Financial Need

o    Most federal financial aid programs are awarded based on financial need, determined by the information provided on the FAFSA.

4.      Proof of Identification

o    Provide documentation to verify citizenship or permanent residence status as required.

5.      Annual FAFSA Submission

o    Submit a completed FAFSA application each academic year, as eligibility and aid amounts may change.

Note on Selective Service Registration: In the United States, military service is voluntary; however, registration with the Selective Service System (SSS) is mandatory for all men aged 18 to 25. This registration ensures eligibility for federal student aid and potential enlistment in case of a national emergency.

At the college or university, you must present a letter from the SSS certifying that you are registered. If you arrived in the United States after age 25, as in my case, you must request an exemption letter from the SSS explaining your exemption due to arriving after the age limit. To obtain the exemption letter, the SSS requires a copy of Form I-94W, completed during immigration entry to the United States. This letter is essential for enrolling in higher education institutions or receiving federal student aid. For more information, visit the SSS website at www.sss.gov or call toll-free at 888-655-1825 (press option 2 for Spanish).


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What to read next:

Florida Atlantic University Admission Requirements here

Broward College Admissions Requirements here

Key Considerations Before Continuing Your Education here

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