What the FAFSA does
It determines eligibility for the federal Pell Grant, federal work-study, and federal student loans, and colleges and the state of Florida use it to award their own aid. Filing it does not obligate you to take loans.
Key dates for 2026-2027
| FAFSA opened | September 24, 2025 |
|---|---|
| Florida priority deadline | May 15, 2026 (file by this date for the best shot at state and school aid) |
| Federal deadline | June 30, 2027 |
Aid is often first come, first served, so apply as early as you can.
How to apply, step by step
- Create your FSA ID (account username and password) at StudentAid.gov. The student and one parent each need their own FSA ID. Allow one to three days for the Social Security Administration to verify it.
- Gather documents: Social Security number, federal tax returns, records of untaxed income, and bank and investment information.
- Log in at StudentAid.gov and complete the FAFSA. Parents may be asked to give consent so tax data can be imported directly from the IRS.
- List every college you are considering so each one receives your information.
- Sign and submit. Both the student and the contributing parent sign electronically.
- Review your confirmation and watch your email for follow-up from schools.
Get started
Need help? Call the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-433-3243.
Tip: Do the FAFSA every year you are in college, not just senior year, and keep your FSA ID login somewhere safe.
Sources: Federal Student Aid (StudentAid.gov); Florida state FAFSA priority deadline.