FAFSA Tips

getting_started

Completing the FAFSA

You may submit a FAFSA in one of two ways:

1. Through the Internet by using "FAFSA on the Web"
"FAFSA on the Web" (www.fafsa.ed.gov) is a free U.S. Department of Education Web site where you can complete a FAFSA online. This process submits your data directly to the U.S. Department of Education. Allow one week for processing. Help with completing the FAFSA is available on the Department of Education Web site. To find out more, visit http://studentaid.ed.gov, select "Applying for Financial Aid," and then click the "Funding Your Education" tab. The OSFA staff is also available to answer any questions you may have. See www.finaid.gatech.edu/contacts.

2. By mailing a paper FAFSA
If you apply by mail, it will take about three weeks for your application to be processed. You may check on the status of your application through the "FAFSA on the Web" site even if you didn't apply online. You can also call toll free at 1.800.433.3243.

More Tips on the FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required each year when applying for need-based funds. The following list is a guide for completing the FAFSA. By adhering to these suggestions, students and parents will prevent unnecessary delays. Accurate reporting and attention to detail are the key elements in completing your application.

  • To complete the "FAFSA on the Web," both the parent and the student must obtain a Personal Identification Number (PIN). Visit www.pin.ed.gov for information about obtaining and using a PIN. Securing a PIN before filling out the FAFSA will greatly expedite the process.
  • Be sure to include the federal school code for the Georgia Institute of Technology (001569) on the FAFSA.
  • If possible, do not use estimates. However, if you have not completed your federal tax return, it is better to use estimates than to miss the priority filing deadline of March 1.
  • Do not respond with a symbol such as "N/A" to a question that requires a number. It could invalidate your entire application.
  • Be sure all required information has been provided on the FAFSA. If the answer is zero, fill in "0." Leaving it blank could be interpreted as intentionally not providing a correct answer.
  • Be sure to read the instructions carefully to learn who is eligible for inclusion in family size and number in college, according to FAFSA guidelines.
  • Check that your full name, address, Social Security number, and date of birth are correct and legible. Errors on these items will significantly delay the processing of your application.
  • Do not use nicknames.
  • If your parent has been divorced or widowed and has remarried, his or her marital status is married. Parental questions (including income data) must include a stepparent’s information.