What is FAFSA?
FAFSA stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and it is a free form that students can complete each academic year to determine if they qualify for grants, loans, or work-study.
Who should submit a FAFSA?
- S. Citizen, Eligible Noncitizen*, or live in U.S. territories*
- Have a valid social security number*
*For those who are not U.S. citizens but are considered U.S. national and U.S. permanent residents these students can still complete the FAFSA application.
*Students who live in U.S. territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, or Palau can complete the FAFSA application.
*If you live in the Marshall Islands, Federal States of Micronesia, or the Republic of Palau you are exempt from having a social security number and can apply for FAFSA.
The application opens in December this year! Students can only fill out one application and the priority deadline for both is February 15th. Fill out the FAFSA application as early as you can, so you can improve your opportunities in receiving aid.
The Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) is a free application that students can fill out to determine if they qualify for state aid. Students under DACA or are classified as undocumented are encourage to fill out this form.
Who should submit a TASFA?
- Non U.S Citizens
- Lived in Texas for 3 years or more (prior to enrolling in college)
- Graduating high school in Texas (or receiving a certificate of high school equivalency)
- Male students who are registered or will register for Selective Service
The application opens in December for the 2025-2026 school year. Students have the option to submit the paper application or the online application https://www.highered.texas.gov/our-work/empowering-our-students/tasfa/tasfa-decision/