FAFSA eligibility: the basics you need to know

If you're planning to go to college in the US, the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is your ticket to federal grants, loans, and work‑study. But not everyone qualifies. Knowing the simple rules up front can save you time and help you avoid surprises later.

Who can apply?

First off, you must be a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident, or have an eligible immigration status. That means undocumented students and most visa holders can’t fill out the FAFSA, though some states offer separate aid.

Second, you need a valid Social Security number (SSN). If you’re a dependent student, your parents also need SSNs. Without them, the form won’t process.

Age isn’t a factor anymore—students of any age can apply as long as they’re enrolled or about to enroll in an eligible program. This includes high‑school graduates returning to school later in life.

Key income and asset rules

The FAFSA looks at both student and parent finances (if you’re a dependent). It doesn’t require tax returns, but it does ask for Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) and any untaxed income like child support. Having a low AGI boosts your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which can mean more aid.

Assets such as savings, investments, and real estate (excluding your primary home) are counted, but the formula gives parents’ assets a lower weight than students’. That’s why some families intentionally keep more money in the parent’s name.

Don’t forget about untaxed benefits, like veterans’ education assistance or veteran’s health care. Those are reported as well, but they don’t raise your EFC as much as taxable income does.

One common mistake is forgetting to report the value of a 529 college savings plan owned by a parent. It’s considered an asset, and leaving it out can flag your application.

There’s also a “simplified needs test” for families earning less than $27,000 a year (as of the 2025‑26 cycle). If you qualify, you skip the detailed asset questions and your EFC is automatically low.

Lastly, meet the enrollment and academic progress requirements: you must be pursuing a degree or certificate, be enrolled at least half‑time, and maintain satisfactory academic progress to keep the aid flowing.

Getting the FAFSA right the first time is worth the effort. Double‑check your numbers, use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool if you can, and file early—some state aid is first‑come, first‑served.

Bottom line: you’re eligible if you’re a citizen or eligible non‑citizen, have an SSN, and meet the basic income, asset, and enrollment rules. Anything else is just a matter of paperwork and timing.