What is Financial Aid?

What is the FAFSA? The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to applying for financial aid. Completing the FAFSA is free and gives you access to the largest source of financial aid to pay for vocational, technical, 2-year and 4-year colleges. Based on the info you provide, each college will calculate your financial aid award.

 

What is the WASFA? The Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) is the first step to applying for financial aid for some undocumented students who live in Washington state. Completing the WASFA is free and gives eligible students access to state financial aid to pay for vocational, technical, 2-year and 4-year colleges in Washington. Eligibility is based on immigration status. Undocumented students with or without DACA should complete the WASFA.  Students must meet individual program and residency requirements. 

If you are a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, you do not complete the WASFA. Unsure on which application to fill out? Take a short questionnaire to determine your eligibility: Ready. Set. Grad.Links to an external site.

 

When should I apply? This year, the FAFSA and WASFA will not be opening until December. It is important to fill out your financial aid application during your senior year. Make sure you know the financial aid priority deadlines for the colleges/universities that you are applying to. You need to submit the FAFSA/WASFA every year while in college.

 

Do I need an FSA ID? (Federal Student Aid ID) An FSA ID gives you access to your FAFSA (FSA ID not required for WASFA application) info and serves as your legal signature. You AND one parent (biological or adoptive) will need to create an FSA ID (username and password). Be sure you and your parent use separate email addresses. If your parent is undocumented there will be extra steps for them to create an FSA ID. 

What information do I need to create an FSA ID? Basic info, such as social security number (SSN), legal name, birthdate, contact info, etc. 

FSA ID .jpg

You can use this worksheet to keep track of your information: Download FSAID Worksheet

 

How to apply for:

FAFSA:

  1. Create a Federal Student Aid Identification (FSA ID): FSA ID WebsiteLinks to an external site.
  2. Use your FSA ID to log in and complete the application: FAFSA ApplicationLinks to an external site.
  3. Check for an email confirming you have successfully submitted the FAFSA.

WASFA: 

  1. Start a New WASFA here: WASFA ApplicationLinks to an external site.
  2. Complete the eligibility questionnaire.
  3. Create an account and save your login and password.
  4. Complete and submit your application.