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FAFSA FAQs

Read through our list of frequently asked questions about the FAFSA.


We've pulled out the questions on the FAFSA that required more explanation.

  1. Can the FAFSA be submitted if the student or parents have not filed their tax returns?

    Yes. If the applicants have not filed their returns, they can still submit the FAFSA. Once the tax return has been filed, the applicant must correct any income or tax data that changed.

  2. Can a non-U.S. citizen receive financial aid?

    Codes for eligible non-citizens are listed on the FAFSA. Immigrant students who do not qualify based for federal aid SHOULD APPLY anyway! They may be eligible for state or college funds.

  3. Does a parent's citizenship affect student eligibility?

    No. Parents without social security numbers enter zeros in the parental SSN questions on the FAFSA. If you are submiting FAFSA on the Web, you will then need to have your parent sign the printed signature page and mail it to the Department of Education.

  4. Where do you report the a 529 prepaid tuition plan?

    Prepaid tuition plans are not reported on the FAFSA. Generally, the student reports those funds directly to the school, usually when he/she reports scholarships.