Are you required to fill out FAFSA every year?
Many students and parents often wonder whether they need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year. The answer to this question is both yes and no, depending on the circumstances. Understanding when and why you need to complete the FAFSA annually is crucial for ensuring that you receive the financial aid you deserve.
Firstly, it is important to note that you are required to fill out the FAFSA every year if you are a dependent student. This means that if you are under the age of 24, married, a graduate student, or an orphan, you must complete the FAFSA annually to maintain your eligibility for federal student aid. By doing so, you can ensure that you continue to receive grants, loans, and work-study opportunities throughout your college career.
However, if you are an independent student, the requirement to fill out the FAFSA every year may not apply. Independent students who are 24 years of age or older, have children or dependents, are married, are veterans, or are wards of the court may not be required to fill out the FAFSA every year. Instead, they may need to complete the FAFSA only once, as long as they maintain their independent status.
There are a few exceptions to the general rule of filling out the FAFSA every year. For example, if you are a graduate student and have already completed the FAFSA for an undergraduate program, you may not need to fill it out again for subsequent graduate programs, provided that your financial situation remains the same. Additionally, if you have been granted a professional judgment review, which is a process that allows you to appeal your financial aid eligibility, you may not need to fill out the FAFSA again for that particular academic year.
It is crucial to keep in mind that filling out the FAFSA every year is essential for maintaining your financial aid eligibility. The information provided in the FAFSA is used to determine your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which is a key factor in determining your eligibility for federal financial aid. If you fail to complete the FAFSA, you may miss out on valuable financial aid opportunities.
In conclusion, while the general rule is that you are required to fill out the FAFSA every year, there are exceptions and circumstances that may allow you to complete the form only once. It is important to review your individual situation and consult with your financial aid office to ensure that you are meeting all the requirements for maintaining your financial aid eligibility.
