How to Apply for Federal Student Aid

Maximizing your financial aid options starts with one form: the FAFSA. Follow these steps to complete it correctly, and you’ll be on your way to unlocking federal, state, and college aid.

If you only wish to apply for TOPS/TOPS Tech and not maximize your potential financial aid offers, you do not need to complete the FAFSA. You can instead apply using the TOPS Online Application

College student applying for the FASFA

FAFSA Step-by-Step

Completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is one of the most important step in receiving financial aid. The FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal aid, many state aid programs, and many college scholarships.

LOSFA is here to help guide you through each step.

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Create Your FSA ID

Before starting the FAFSA, you and your parent (if required) must create an FSA ID.

Your FSA ID serves as your legal signature when completing financial aid documents.

Create your FSA ID at: studentaid.gov

You will need:

  • Social Security Number
  • Email address
  • Phone number

Gather the Documents You’ll Need

Having your information ready will make completing the FAFSA a smoother process.

You may need:

  • Social Security Number
  • Federal tax returns (student and parent if applicable)
  • Records of income or benefits
  • Bank account balances
  • Investment records (if applicable)

Most families can now import tax information directly from the IRS, which helps prevent errors.

Complete the FAFSA

Go to: studentaid.gov

The FAFSA asks questions about your household and financial situation to determine eligibility for aid.

You will also list the colleges or training programs you are considering so they can receive your financial aid information.

Tip: List every school you are considering — you can add or remove schools later.

Step 4 — Review Your FAFSA Submission Summary

After submitting your FAFSA, you will receive a FAFSA Submission Summary.

This summary includes your Student Aid Index (SAI), which schools use to determine how much financial aid you may qualify for.

Review your information carefully and correct any errors if needed.

Step 5 — Receive Financial Aid Offers

Once colleges receive your FAFSA information, and you have been accepted to the college, they will create a financial aid offer that explains the types of aid available to you.

These offers may include:

  • Grants
  • Scholarships
  • Work-Study
  • Student loans

You will use these offers to compare schools and determine your best financial option.