Reapply Each Year

Most financial aid awards are considered “new” each school year, so you’ll need to submit the FAFSA each year. The easiest way is by using your online Renewal FAFSA starting January 1 (there are no paper Renewal FAFSAs, but you can complete a paper FAFSA if you don’t have online access). Simply update any information that has changed, such as your income or family size, complete any blank areas and review your list of colleges.

You should continue to receive any state or federal aid you received the year before as long as you still meet the requirements. This usually includes making satisfactory academic progress, so be sure you understand your school’s policy.

As you get closer to graduating from college, be sure to check in with your financial aid office to see if there is a maximum number of units after which you may not qualify for financial aid.

Changing Schools? If you’ll be changing schools, keep in mind that your financial aid may not automatically go with you.