FAFSA Tips

  • "You" and "your" always refer to the student who is completing the FAFSA.
  • Use the name that appears on the student's Social Security card. Do not use nicknames.
  • Read the FAFSA instructions before filling out the form and follow the instructions exactly.
  • Check that the Social Security number and birth date are correct.
  • List the student's full permanent mailing address.
  • Answer all questions that require a dollar figure with a number. If your answer to an income or asset question is zero, write the number "0". Do not use NA, not applicable or a dash. Only skip an item if the instructions specifically state that you should.
  • Do not report cents - round dollar figures to the nearest whole dollar. (e.g. report $45,150.65 as 45,151.)
  • Use annual, not monthly amounts for requested earnings and benefits information.
  • Report only net worth (value minus debt) of real estate, investments and assets.
  • Do not send tax forms, letters or other correspondence with the FAFSA. They will not be read and will be discarded.
  • KU Financial Aid: FAFSA Tips PDF