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FAQs about Filing the FAFSA

Q: Why must I provide my parents information on the FAFSA?

A: A basic premise of Federal Student Financial Aid is that the family is responsible for educational expenses. Be sure to include yourself when entering your parents' family size. Read the FAFSA instructions carefully to determine whether you are dependent or independent for aid purposes.

Q: My (or my parents') circumstances are going to change, do I enter what is true now or what will be true on the FAFSA?

A: Enter what is true now. Use the previous year’s Federal 1040 tax information. If you or your family has a significant decrease in income in the current year, or if a change occurs such as death or divorce, contact a Financial Aid Officer AFTER you receive your SAR from the central processor. We may adjust your award package.

Q: My parents have not filed their tax return yet. Can they estimate their income?

A: Yes, they may use estimates, but the information must be corrected later to match the exact figures from the actual tax returns before aid is paid to you.

Q: My parents are divorced, which parent should complete the FAFSA?

A: The parent you lived with most during the last 12 months should complete the FAFSA. If you did not live with either parent, or if you lived with each parent an equal amount of time, use the parent who provided the most support to you in the most recent calendar year.

Q: I live with someone other than a parent or legal guardian (aunt, uncle, friend’s parents, etc.). How do I complete the FAFSA?

A: This is an important question to answer before completing the FAFSA for those who are in this situation. The answer depends upon your unique circumstances. Before beginning the FAFSA, you should contact the Financial Aid Office to assist you with answering this question.

Q: What do I do if I made a mistake on the FAFSA and want to make corrections?

A: You should consult a Financial Aid Officer before making changes. Not all changes require resubmitting the SAR to the central processor.

Q: I have a trust fund that I cannot touch until I am 21 years old. Do I report it on the FAFSA?

A: Yes, a trust fund must be reported because it represents your financial strength.