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Here on the Send Your Kids to College blog we always try and provide useful college planning information for students and parents of the WNY area. We are certified college planning specialists who work directly with you to help navigate the treacherous process of college financial planning. A lot of people think they must rely on whoever is working the phone that day at the college or university for all their questions, which simply isn't true. We are here for you at any time, ready to provide insight and experience to help you make the best decision financially.
Today we wanted to touch on FAFSA deadlines and the 3 big deadlines that every kid and parent should know.
1. The College FAFSA Deadline
2. The State FAFSA Deadline
3. The Federal FAFSA Deadline
The College FAFSA Deadline
Colleges and Universities provide the initial first due date. This is usually pretty early. This FAFSA deadline varies from school to school but usually, comes well before the academic year begins. For example, Buffalo State lists on their site that the process begins Oct 1, but it is a little suspect when you have to have it done BY. It's important to file early, in order to receive the highest potential financial aid. It is typically done on a priority basis, so don't wait, or you could lose out!
You can still apply to FAFSA without knowing which School(s) you are applying to! Just list any schools you are considering, even if you aren't sure.
The State FAFSA Deadline
Behind the college application and college FAFSA deadline, is the state FAFSA deadline. This is set by whatever state you reside in. For New York State applicants, the deadline is June 30, but many states have limited funds. This is why FAFSA deadlines are often considered "as soon as possible."
If you have a question regarding FAFSA and when it needs to be done by, call to talk to a Certified College Planning Specialist Today!
The Federal FAFSA Deadline
The last deadline comes from the U.S. Department of Education, aka the FAFSA folks. The time limit for federal applications is technically June 30, as that is the day that the FAFSA form for that particular year becomes unavailable after that date, and the new one begins for the next year. That means that the 2022-23 FAFSA form will disappear from the studentaid.gov website on June 30, 2023, because that is the end of the 22-23 school year. The next following year, it is important to re-apply ASAP as a few federal student aid programs have limited funds.
What If I Miss the FAFSA Deadline?
First thing, don't miss the deadline. Plan to submit the FAFSA form as early as possible to ensure the best odds of financial aid. Missing deadlines takes your name off the list, or moves it down the list, hurting your chances. The payout for some latecomers is often slimmer in states that allow latecomer applicants. The sooner the better!
If you haven't filled out your FAFSA forms, you're a little behind the ball for this year, but not too late. Get in touch with us via our contact form or by phone and we can get you where you need to go. We are seasoned in helping parents and students set up these FAFSA forms and TAP resources, and often see a great deal of relief when we are able to "take over" the process for you.
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