5 Common FAFSA Mistakes

1. Not completing the FAFSA form.

We hear all kinds of reasons: “The FAFSA form is too hard.” “It takes too long to complete.” “I’ll never qualify anyway, so why does it matter?” It does matter, and you don’t know what kinds of grants, loans, or scholarships you might qualify for. If you don’t complete the FAFSA form, you could lose out on thousands of dollars to help you pay for college.

2. Not filling out the FAFSA form as soon as it is available.

If you want to get the most financial aid possible, fill out the FAFSA form ASAP. The earlier you file, the better we can maximize your financial aid eligibility! Even if it seems like the deadline is far off in the future, get your FAFSA form done ASAP.

3. Not getting an FSA ID before filling out the FAFSA form.

It’s important to get an FSA ID before filling out the FAFSA form. Why? Well, because when you register for an FSA ID, you may need to wait up to three days before you can use it to sign your FAFSA form electronically. An FSA ID is a username and password that you use to log in to certain U.S. Department of Education websites, including fafsa.gov.

4. Not using the IRS Data retrieval tool.

For many applicants, the most difficult part about filling out the FAFSA form is entering

the financial information. But thanks to a partnership with the IRS, students and

parents who are eligible can automatically transfer their necessary tax information into the FAFSA form using the IRS DRT. If you’re given the option to “LINK TO IRS” button, take advantage of it!

5. Not signing the FAFSA form.

So many students answer every single question that is asked but fail to actually sign the FAFSA form with their FSA ID and submit it. Don’t let this happen to you. If you’re not able to sign with your FSA ID, there’s an option to mail a signature page.

To learn how to maximize aid for your degree program, talk to the Student Financial Services office of Geneva College. For more information on how Geneva College can help you pursue your career objectives, please give us a call at 800-847-8255 or email admissions@geneva.edu.

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- Emily Ethridge, Geneva College SFS Student Intern (sources: Federal Student Aid and Inceptia)

Opinions expressed in the Geneva Blog are those of its contributors and do not necessarily represent the opinions or official position of the College. The Geneva Blog is a place for faculty and contributing writers to express points of view, academic insights, and contribute to national conversations to spark thought, conversation, and the pursuit of truth, in line with our philosophy as a Christian, liberal arts institution.

Nov 12, 2019

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