FAFSA Steps

Have a question? Need assistance? Text us!
24/7 Texting Platform - 860-783-6605

How To Prepare for the 2026–27 FAFSA® Form

STEP 1: Create an FSA ID

What is an FSA ID?: An FSA ID is a username and password that allows users to log into the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, provide electronic signatures, and manage financial aid business.

‍Who needs an FSA ID?: An FSA ID is needed by students applying for federal student aid and their parents or contributors who are helping with the FAFSA form (students are considered Dependent until the age of24 unless other circumstances apply).

‍What does a student/contributor need to create an FSA ID?:

  • Social security number (if applicable)
  • Personal email address (not a student or work provided email address, must be able to access this account regularly to confirm the user profile and receive future correspondence).
CREATE YOUR FSA ID HERE

NOTE:

  • Contributors without an SSN can create an FSA ID to fill out their portion of your FAFSA form online.
  • If you already have an FSA ID, you do NOT NEEDTO create another account. You can use your previous account by resetting the log in credentials.

STEP 2: Complete your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

The FAFSA for the 2026-2027 school year is now available. This will use tax and income information from 2025 (if applicable).

Yes, FAFSA needs to be completed each and every year that you are in school, in order to receive financial aid for that academic year. Students and contributors MUST complete and file a FAFSA form every year to remain eligible for the GEAR UP CT scholarship.

Click here to start your FAFSA

2025-2026 FAFSA® APPLICATION DEADLINE:

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form allows a student to be considered for federal student aid. In addition, states and colleges use FAFSA information to award their own grants, scholarships, and loans. But, since some aid is limited, you must meet the deadlines!

  • The FAFSA form must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Central time (CT) on June 30, 2026.
  • Any corrections or updates must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on Sept. 13, 2026.

DEADLINES FOR CT HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS:

  • ALL Connecticut high school seniors must submit their FAFSA application by Feb. 15, 2025, for priority consideration.
  • All other financial and/or institutional aid, a student MUST check with the financial aid office at the college or career school they plan to attend and have been accepted to. Additional forms may be required by that institute of higher education.
  • Prepare now so you can complete the 2025–26 FAFSA form as soon as it’s available on or before Dec 1, 2024.
  • Here are some ways you can get ready now before 12/1/2024:
  • STEP 1: CREATE YOUR FSA ID ACCOUNT (whether you’re a student, parent, or borrower, you’ll need to create your own account to apply for, receive, and manage your federal student aid)
HOMESTUDENTSPARENTSTEAMNEWS & EVENTSPARTNERSSTATSFSA ID & FAFSA STEPSGEAR UP CT Scholarship
CT State Colleges and Universities - ct.edu
GearUP CT word logoCSCU link and logo.
CT Office of Higher Education - ctohe.org