You may choose any of these three methods to file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA):
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Login to apply online (Recommended) or
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Complete a PDF FAFSA (Note: PDF FAFSAs must be mailed for processing) or
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Request a paper FAFSA by calling us at 1-800-4-FED-AID (1-800-433-3243) or 319-337-5665. If you are hearing impaired, contact the TTY line at 1-800-730-8913.
Federal Deadline
- Online applications must be submitted by midnight Central Time, June 30th.
- Any corrections or updates must be submitted by midnight Central Time, September 23rd.
State Deadline
- For many state financial aid programs – March 2, 2016 by midnight, Central Time.
- Cal Grant also requires submission of a school - certified GPA by March 2, 2016. Applicants are encouraged to obtain proof of mailing their GPA and to retain a copy of their GPA form. For additional community college Cal Grants - September 2, 2016 by midnight, Central Time. If you are a non-citizen holding a Social Security card issued through Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or for some other work authorization, you should fill out the California Dream Act Application found at www.caldreamact.org. Do NOT fill out a FAFSA. Contact the California Student Aid Commission, www.csac.ca.gov, or your financial aid administrator for more information.
College Deadline
- Check with the college(s) you are interested in attending. You may also want to ask your college about its definition of an application deadline - whether it is the date the college receives your FAFSA, or the date your FAFSA is processed.
- California - For initial awards - March 2, 2013. Applicants encouraged to keep a record of their submission by printing out their online FAFSA confirmation page or obtaining proof of mailing the FAFSA. Additional form may be required. Contact your financial aid administrator or your state agency.
- For additional community college awards - September 2, 2013 - date postmarked. Applicants encouraged to keep a record of their submission by printing out their online FAFSA confirmation page or obtaining proof of mailing the FAFSA. Additional form may be required. Contact your financial aid administrator or your state agency.
