What is the FAFSA?
Completing the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®), is necessary to be considered for federal student aid, including federal grants, work-study, loans, etc. It is free to complete and submit the FAFSA, and doing so provides you with access to financial aid to pay for college or career school.
Many states use your FAFSA information to see if you qualify for state aid, and colleges use it for school aid. Private financial aid providers may also ask for your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for their aid.
Applying for financial aid can feel overwhelming. There are many opportunities for New Bedford Public Schools students to receive help with the financial aid process, from in person presentations and work sessions to remote events. If you are not sure where to begin, see your school counselor.
How to Create an FSA ID
FSA ID How-to guide
Guía de FSA ID
The timeline and checklist below, provided by uAspire, will help seniors and their caregivers with the process. Although this information may change slightly from year to year, younger students can get an idea of what to expect with this process. We are pleased to share these documents in multiple languages. (Thank you, uAspire!)
FAFSA Checklist /Timeline (English)
FAFSA Checklist /Timeline (Spanish)
FAFSA Checklist /Timeline (Portuguese)
FAFSA Checklist /Timeline (Cape Verdean)
FAFSA Checklist /Timeline (Haitian Creole)