Thanks to a new state law, this year all graduating seniors are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as the FAFSA, or sign a waiver opting out. Granite Edvance (formerly the NHHEAF Network) compiled the following fact sheet. Please note: The overhauled FAFSA is expected to be available by the end of this month.
There is a new requirement for New Hampshire students to graduate high school. For the Class of 2024 going forward, students will be required to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or sign a waiver opting out.
The FAFSA: What it is and why it matters for YOU
What is the FAFSA?
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a form to apply for federal financial aid for college and/or training, including grants, work-study, and loans. The FAFSA is also used by colleges, some trade/vocational schools, and scholarship programs to determine eligibility for aid such as scholarships.
It is FREE to complete and does not obligate the student or parent/guardian to anything.
Note: The FAFSA is one step in applying for financial aid. Some colleges require additional forms, too.
Why is it relevant to me?
Do you want to know all the options you have for how to fund your future? The ONLY way to know for sure if you qualify for any need- OR merit-based aid is to file a FAFSA.
The FAFSA is how to figure out all the options available to you and learn more about them. It’s still your choice to select which options you want – or don’t want.
Students in New Hampshire left $7.9 million in Pell Grants on the table by not completing the FAFSA in 2022 (NCAN).
If you don’t file a FAFSA, you DEFINITELY will not receive any financial aid – because you haven’t applied for it!
Does the FAFSA obligate me to anything?
Not at all! Remember, it’s your choice if you use financial aid available to you. You don’t have to accept loans, grants, or scholarships.
How do I fill it out?
Access the FAFSA form: https://studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/filling-out
Resources to help along the way:
I’m still thinking of opting out. What now?
If you choose not to file the FAFSA, you may sign a waiver from the NH Department of Education indicating that you opt out from the requirement. The waiver may be signed by the student if they are 18 years old or older; otherwise, the parent/guardian signs. Your school’s counseling team and administrators will provide more information about where to submit the waiver once you’ve signed.