Students going to college or trade school next year can start the financial aid process now.

Since some financial aid is awarded by schools on a first-come, first-served basis, getting a jump on the application could pay off.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid opened a few days earlier than expected. Students can fill out the form online.

If this is your first time filling out the FAFSA form, you and anyone who provides information on the form, like a parent or guardian, would have to get their own StudentAid.gov account.

If you think your family makes too much to qualify for federal need-based aid, like a Pell Grant, the form may help connect you to other options. The FAFSA is also used to help determine eligibility for other programs like work-study or student loans. You ca

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