Figuring Out the FAFSA

Students who are expecting to enter college and require financial assistance are required to fill out a form called a FAFSA before learning their eligibility for financial aid.

FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. If you plan to finance your college career by grants or loans, a FAFSA is a necessary step to applying for that help.

For detailed information and a simple walk-through on filing a FAFSA, please see www.fafsa.ed.gov

I am unsure of how the process of filing a FAFSA has changed over the past seven years. I graduated college in 2003 after several surgeries delayed my intended date. Prior to the age of 24, I lived at home with my parents and was dependent upon them. For this reason, my parents' income was factored in when I filled out my FAFSA. In 1995 at a meeting about college, a question was asked by a student in my class if these same rules applied whether living at home or on one's own. The answer the counselor gave her was that until someone is 24 years of age, the parents' income is a factor in determining eligibility of Pell-grants because that person is a dependant even if he or she lives elsewhere. In my case, I had to borrow loans until I was 24 years old.

Let me explain what a Pell-grant is. A Pell-grant is money given based entirely on income that is not expected to be paid back. It is to be used for tuition, books, and other fees related to schooling. With parental income included, many people under the age of 24+ are not eligible for Pell grants. The FAFSA also helps determine eligibility for other grants, loans, and work-study programs. It is important to fill out the form as soon as you can. Also, it will be necessary to fill out a FAFSA with each school year.

I visited the website for FAFSA and many questions are asked to determine if you are considered a dependant on your parents. Because I am unable to answer these questions at this point in my life as a 32 year old, married mom of two, with a college degree, I cannot tell you if your parents' income will be included in your application. I can only refer you to the site to learn what your dependency status is considered. You will be asked a lot of questions and then given an answer. If you are unable to apply for a federal Pell grant there may be other options available to help you finance your college education. Contact the student loan department at the college you wish to attend for more information.