FAFSA Guide

If you’re already familiar with the process, visit studentaid.gov now to start your application, learn about the process in more detail or log into your account to add a school, make corrections, view your Student Aid Report (SAR) and more.

What is the FAFSA?

FAFSA stands for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This online application collects your personal and financial information, then uses your profile to see how much aid you’re eligible for. There are many different types of funding that are awarded depending on your need for assistance.

When is the FAFSA Due?

Every year the FAFSA opens for new applications on October 1^st. Students can then apply for aid and loans until June 30; however, you must complete your financial aid process before the priority funding date deadline each fall, winter and spring/summer quarter to ensure your aid is in place before tuition is due.

While students can apply anytime between October 1^st - June 30, it’s always better to get your application in as early as possible. Federal funds are awarded in order of the applications received until the annual money runs out. That’s why the SFCC financial aid office sets a quarterly deadline called the priority funding deadline. This date signifies the latest date that the financial aid office should receive confirmation of your FAFSA application in order for your funds to be ready in time to pay your tuition.

*Please note that the financial aid office cannot be held responsible your federal aid being delayed due to a late application. Plan accordingly because you are responsible for paying your tuition on-time regardless of your aid status. If your funds are not ready by the time your tuition is due, you may not be able to register for your classes because of a financial hold on your account.

Are you a high school student planning to move directly to SFCC? You will want to plan for and submit your application in the fall/winter of your senior year of high school.

Important FAFSA Deadlines

FAFSA Opens Anually (for the upcoming academic year)	FAFSA Closes Anually (for the current academic year)	Priority Funding Deadline
October 1	June 30

Getting Started with the FAFSA

Am I eligible?
Creating an FSA ID
What documents do I need to apply?
Start Your FAFSA Application
FAFSA in Spanish

Need Help Filling out Your FAFSA?

FAFSA Tools

Federal Student Aid Estimator

The Federal Student Aid Estimator is a tool on the FAFSA website that asks for some basic information and returns an estimate of the aid you’re eligible. The tool also provides general estimates for other school related costs that can help you start budgeting for all your college costs.

Use the Federal Student Aid Estimator

Net Price Calculator

The net price calculator is a tool managed by the state of Washington that takes real tuition and fees associated with SFCC allows you to enter your expected amount of aid and returns an estimated cost for your education. Many students will use this tool after using the Federal Student Aid Estimator.

Use the Net Price Calculator