10 Common FAFSA Mistakes to Avoid 

Not completing the FAFSA form -  It should go without saying, but nearly 40% of college-bound students didn’t complete the FAFSA last year, even though many of them would have been eligible for financial aid. 

Not getting an FSA ID before filling out the FAFSA -  You may need to wait up to three days before you can use your FSA ID to sign the FAFSA electronically, so it’s important to create one ASAP to avoid delays. 

Not using the FSA ID to start your FAFSA form -  Using your FSA ID to populate your personal information on the FAFSA form will help prevent errors and delays in processing. 

Not filling out the FAFSA ASAP -  The sooner you fill out your FAFSA, the better your chances of receiving the most financial aid possible. 

Not submitting the FAFSA by the deadline -  Every state and college has its own deadline, and some are as early as February. You must meet the deadlines to be eligible to receive scholarships, and the sooner, the better. 

Not using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool - It can be used by both students and parents, and it’s the best way to ensure all of your information is accurate and up to date. 

Inputting incorrect information -  If the information on your FAFSA is inaccurate, you may lose out on financial aid or not receive the correct amount. 

Not reporting required information -  Be sure to fill out all required information for both the student and parent. 

Listing only one college - It’s important to list all colleges you are considering regardless of whether you believe you’ll be accepted or even apply

Not signing the FAFSA form -  Once you’ve filled out all of the required information, both the student and one parent must sign the FAFSA using their FSA ID. 

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