The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the primary application used to determine eligibility for:
- Federal grants
- Federal student loans
- Work-study programs
- Many state aid programs
- Institutional financial aid and scholarships
Helpful FAFSA resources include:
Students can complete the FAFSA online through the Federal Student Aid Office.
Steps to Complete the FAFSA
Step 1: Create a StudentAid.gov Account
Before completing the FAFSA, students must create a StudentAid.gov account if they do not already have one. Contributors, such as parents or spouses, must also have their own accounts. Steps for filling out the FAFSA.
Step 2: Start a New FAFSA Form
Log in at FAFSA.gov and select:
- Start New Form
- Choose
Student
as the applicant
Step 3: Provide Student Information
Students will enter:
- Name
- Address
- State of residence
- Citizenship status
- High school information
- Consent for IRS tax data transfer
Step 4: Answer Personal Circumstance Questions
Students will answer questions regarding:
- Dependency status
- Family circumstances
- Housing status
- Marital status
- Other special circumstances
Step 5: Complete Financial Information
Students, and parents if required, will provide:
- Tax filing information
- Income information
- Asset information
- Savings and checking account balances
- Investments and other financial resources
Step 6: Add Colleges
Students can send their FAFSA information to up to 20 colleges or universities.
Be sure to include Michigan State University’s Federal School Code: 002290.
Step 7: Invite Required Contributors
Dependent students generally must invite a parent contributor. Contributors will:
- Receive an email invitation
- Complete the required sections
- Sign the FAFSA electronically
Step 8: Review and Sign
Before submitting the FAFSA:
- Review all information carefully
- Sign electronically
- Ensure all contributors have completed their sections
After submission, students will receive a FAFSA Submission Summary outlining the next steps.
Additional Information
For the most complete and up-to-date information, visit: