2026-2027 FAFSA Update

FAFSA Made Simple: Your 5-Step Guide

Completing the FAFSA doesn’t have to be stressful. Follow these steps to get it done:

1. Gather your Documents
Have these ready before you start:

2. Create Your FSA ID
Tip: Use an email address you’ll always have access to.

Visit studentaid.gov to set up your secure Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID.
Students need an FSA ID, and if you’re a dependent student, your contributor does too.

3. Fill Out the FAFSA Form

Log in at FAFSA.gov using your FSA ID.
Provide personal details, financial information and lists the schools you want to attend.
- Tip: Use the IRS Direct Data Exchange to automatically import your tax information.

4. Double-Check for Accuracy
Common mistakes to avoid:

5. Submit and Follow Up

Submit your FAFSA as soon as possible!
After submitting, log into FAFSA.gov to download and review your Student Aid Report (SAR). Make any corrections, if needed.
Log into your MSJC MyApps and select Self-Service for Financial Aid, to check if you need to submit verification documents.

The new FAFSA form opens October 1, 2025. Here’s how to prepare now:

Create your StudentAid.gov account (if you don’t already have one).
Review what documents you’ll need.
Figure out your dependency status (will a parent/spouse need to provide info?).
If dependent, use the Who’s My FAFSA Parent? tool to know which parent(s) to list.

How to file starting October 1:

Create a StudentAid.gov account for yourself and for any contributors (parents, spouse).
Complete the student portion of the FAFSA.
Use this infographic to help you identify who else needs to provide information.
Invite contributors to complete their section — you’ll need their name, Social Security Number (if applicable), date of birth, and email address.

What you’ll need to complete the FAFSA:

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