You can begin filing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) on October 1st -- which means you can file the FAFSA now!

DeadlinesEvery college or university has their own preferred filing date for the FAFSA -- some as early as December 1st -- so check outwww.ICANsucceed.org/priority to find the priority dates for the schools you are applying to.

Tax Information

You will use your parents’ tax information from 2017 to file the FAFSA for the 2019-20 school year. The FAFSA is solely based off of 2017 taxes, so you WON’T have to update the FAFSA with 2018 taxes. Visit www.fafsa.gov to file the form.

This extended timeline is beneficial to you because it will allow you to receive your financial aid award letters early in the spring semester. This will give you more time to make a final decision about where you want to go to school. You may receive financial aid award letters as early as January or February, and you still have until May 1st to make your final decisions.

AssistanceIf you have questions about paying for college, or would like free help filing your FAFSA, ICAN offers free resources for college planning and financial aid. You can visit their website, www.ICANsucceed.org/ to schedule an appointment, or call their toll free number, 877-272-4692 to talk to an advisor.  

You can also visit a FAFSA Ready Iowa event which offers free assistance without an appointment. Visitwww.icansucceed.org/fafsareadyiaevents to find a location near you.