The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a key step in securing financial aid for college. Whether you’re applying for the first time or need a refresher, navigating the FAFSA can be a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry! We’ve
broken down everything you need to know—from the materials required to the steps involved, along with some helpful tips to make the process easier.
Why Should You File the FAFSA?
Filing the FAFSA is essential because it determines your eligibility for federal student aid, including grants, work-study opportunities, and loans. Many states and schools also use FAFSA data to offer their own financial aid packages. So, regardless
of whether you think you’ll qualify for financial aid, it’s worth submitting to the FAFSA. In fact, every new first-year student at Bellarmine receives at least $1,000 more in aid through the Bellarmine IMPACT grant.
Materials You’ll Need to File the FAFSA
Before you dive into the FAFSA application, make sure you have the necessary documents at hand. These can vary depending on whether you are a dependent or independent student, but generally, you’ll need the following:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN) - You’ll need to provide your SSN to verify your identity. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may need an Alien Registration Number.
- Your Driver’s License (if applicable) - If you have a driver’s license, it can be helpful, though not mandatory.
- Your Federal Income Tax Returns - Both you and your parents (if you're a dependent) will need your most recent tax returns. For example, for the 2025–2026 FAFSA, you'll need the 2023 tax return. You can use the Future Act Direct Data
Exchange (FA-DDX) to automatically import tax information into the FAFSA.
- W-2 Forms - If you or your parents worked, gather your W-2 forms or other records of earnings.
- Bank Statements and Records of Investments - This includes savings and checking account balances, as well as information on other investments like stocks, bonds, and real estate (not including the home you live in).
- Records of Untaxed Income - This could include child support received, veterans’ benefits, or other untaxed income sources.
- List of Schools You Are Interested In - You’ll need to add the schools where you want your FAFSA results sent. You can add up to 20 schools to your FAFSA application. Bellarmine’s school code is #001954
Steps for Filing the FAFSA
Now that you have everything you need, let’s walk through the process of filing the FAFSA.
Step 1: Create an FSA ID
An FSA ID is a unique username and password that allows you to sign and submit your FAFSA electronically. Both students and parents (if applicable) will need an FSA ID. Visit the FSA ID website to create one. You should do this two weeks prior to your
first time filing. You can
use this tool to determine who in your family needs an FSA ID.
Step 2: Go to the FAFSA Website
Head to
studentaid.gov to begin your application. Typically, you can start your FAFSA application anytime after October 1st each year for the upcoming school year. For 2025-2026 FAFSA opens
December 1st, but it is available now.
Step 3: Fill Out the FAFSA Form
The FAFSA is divided into sections, which you will complete based on your personal and financial information. Here’s a breakdown of the sections:
- Student Information: Basic details like name, SSN, date of birth, and citizenship status.
- School Information: List the schools you’re applying to or interested in attending (Bellarmine’s School code is #001954). Be sure to include both in-state and out-of-state options.
- Dependency Status: The FAFSA asks questions to determine your dependency status as a dependent or independent student. Dependent students will need to provide parental information.
- Financial Information: Report income, tax data, and assets including cash, checking, savings, net worth of business, and farms. As mentioned earlier, you can use the FA-DDX to simplify this step.
- Sign and Submit: Once all sections are complete, review your information and sign using your FSA ID. Once you have signed, your parents (if needed) will also have to log in to complete, sign and submit the FAFSA for processing.
Step 4: Review Your FAFSA Submission Summary
After you submit your FAFSA, you’ll receive a FAFSA Submission Summary detailing your application. Review this carefully to ensure there are no errors. If corrections are needed, make them immediately.
Step 5: Wait for Financial Aid Offers
Schools will use your FAFSA data to create a financial aid package. This could include federal grants, loans, or work-study opportunities, as well as state and institutional aid. The offers will come directly from the schools you applied to, so be
sure to monitor your email and financial aid portals.
Bellarmine will begin sending comprehensive packages in January for the 2025-2026 Academic Year.
Tips and Tricks for a Smooth FAFSA Process
Start Early
Don’t wait until the last minute. The FAFSA officially opens on December 1st (but you can start now) for 2025-2026, so the earlier you apply, the more time you’ll have to gather additional materials if necessary.
Keep Your Records Organized
It’s easy to misplace forms or forget important details. Keep everything in one folder or folder on your computer to ensure you don’t waste time searching for documents.
Don’t Leave Questions Blank
If a question doesn’t apply to you, select “Not Applicable” or “Zero” as appropriate, rather than leaving it blank.
Track Your Application
After submitting your FAFSA, track the status of your application by logging in to the Student Aid website. You can check if there are any issues or if schools have received your information.
Keep an Eye on Deadlines
Each state and school has its own deadlines for financial aid. Be sure to check these deadlines and submit your FAFSA well in advance. Missing a deadline could mean missing out on financial aid.
In Kentucky, State aid can run out, so file early!
Contact Your School’s Financial Aid Office
If you have questions or run into problems, don’t hesitate to contact the financial aid office at the school(s) you’re interested in. They’re there to help and can guide you through any hiccups. You can contact Bellarmine's Office
of Financial Aid at finaid@bellarmine.edu.
Common FAFSA Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect Social Security Number: Double-check your SSN before submitting.
- Missing Parent Info: If you’re a dependent, make sure to include your parents’ financial information—unless you're considered independent.
- Failing to Sign Your FAFSA: Remember that both you (the student) and your parent (if applicable) need to sign the FAFSA.
Conclusion
Filing the FAFSA is a crucial step in securing financial aid for college, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With the right materials in hand and a clear understanding of the steps involved, you can navigate the process with ease.
Start early, stay organized, and make use of available tools to ensure the best outcome for your financial aid application. Students who file FAFSA at Bellarmine are often eligible for additional Bellarmine aid whether they qualify for state and
federal aid, so it makes sense to file even if you don't think you'll qualify.
Good luck!