Hey there, future Bears and families!
We know you’re excited about college, and we’re excited for you too! But here’s some important news: the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for the 2025-2026 school year is going to be delayed this year. Instead of opening in October, it will be available in December 2024. That’s a little later than usual, but don’t worry! There are still plenty of things you can do now to get ready. Let’s break it down.
Step 1: Create Your FSA ID
The first thing you’ll need to file the FAFSA is an FSA ID. This is like your personal key to access the FAFSA and sign it online. It’s easy to set up!
- Go to StudentAid.gov and click on “Create Account.”
- Fill in your basic info (like your name, date of birth, and email).
- Make sure to write down your username and password so you don’t forget.
Parents, you’ll need to create an FSA ID too if you’re going to help your student with the FAFSA. So, get yours set up now, and you’ll be ready to roll when the FAFSA opens.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Even though you can’t fill out the FAFSA yet, you can start gathering the documents you’ll need. Here’s what to have ready:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN)
- 2023 Tax returns (for you and your parents)
- Records of any untaxed income (like child support or disability payments)
- Current bank account balances
Getting all this paperwork together now will make filling out the FAFSA a breeze when December rolls around.
Step 3: Keep Applying for Scholarships
Don’t forget—there are lots of scholarships out there to help you pay for college, and you don’t have to wait for the FAFSA to apply for them. Visit Missouri State’s scholarship website to explore options for institutionally funded awards. Also, don’t sleep on the MSU Foundation Annual Scholarship Application! The MSU Foundation offers nearly 1,000 different scholarships to MSU students and the application opens November 1.
Finally, sure you check for local scholarship. Even small scholarships can add up! My Scholarship Central is a great way to search for outside scholarship opportunities.
When to Expect the FAFSA
Mark your calendars! The 2025-2026 FAFSA is expected to open in December 2024. That’s a couple of months later than usual, but it just gives you more time to get everything ready. As soon as it’s available, you’ll want to complete it to ensure you qualify for the most financial aid possible.
Need Help?
We’re here for you! If you have questions, the Missouri State Office of Student Financial Aid is always happy to help. Give us a call or stop by our office.
Getting ready for college is exciting, and the more prepared you are, the smoother the process will be. Take these steps now, and you’ll be all set when the FAFSA opens in December. 🗓️
Good luck, and we can’t wait to see you at Missouri State University next fall!
Go Bears! 🐻✨
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