March 15th is the priority date for returning students to complete the FAFSA. Some forms of financial aid are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis and have limited funding. The FAFSA application dates is used as one of the measures for awarding this limited aid.

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is one of the most important steps you can take when applying for financial assistance for college. Many students qualify for some form of financial aid, so even if you are unsure whether you will be eligible, submitting the FAFSA is highly recommended. This article highlights the top five reasons why completing the FAFSA is an essential part of the financial aid process.

The primary reason to complete the FAFSA is to gain access to more than $150 billion in financial aid each year, including grants, work-study opportunities, federal student loans, and some forms of state-based aid. The FAFSA is the application used to determine a student’s eligibility for these types of financial assistance. Students and, in many cases, parents must complete the FAFSA to be considered for federal grants, work-study programs, and federal loans. Even families with higher incomes may qualify for Direct Unsubsidized Federal Loans by submitting the FAFSA.

Many states and colleges also use the information submitted on the FAFSA to determine eligibility for their own financial aid programs. Some states offer grant programs, and many colleges provide scholarships and institutional grants based on financial need. By completing the FAFSA, students ensure they are considered for the full range of financial aid opportunities available to them.

Federal student loans are often more affordable than private loans and typically offer lower interest rates along with more flexible repayment options, including income-driven repayment plans. By completing the FAFSA, students can determine their eligibility for federal student loans and explore borrowing options that may be more manageable over time.

Completing the FAFSA can also help you plan for college expenses. The application calculates your Student Aid Index (SAI), which provides an estimate used to determine your eligibility for financial aid. Understanding your SAI can help you and your family better prepare for the cost of college and evaluate the affordability of the schools you are considering.

Completing the FAFSA is a critical step in securing financial aid for college. It opens the door to a wide range of funding opportunities, including state and institutional aid, federal grants, and federal student loans. It also helps you better understand and plan for your college expenses while giving you confidence that you have explored all available financial aid options.

To get started on your FAFSA, visit https://studentaid.gov.

To allow someone access to your financial and other Stetson University records:

1. Log into your MyStetson portal

2. Click on the "Authorized Users" tile to complete the form

3. This is a 2-part authentication, you complete one part, then the person(s) added will complete a second part after receiving a confirmation email

The Office of Financial Aid cannot speak with anyone about a student's financial aid unless they are granted permission by the student.

Q: When will the 2026-2027 Parent PLUS loan application open?

A: May 1st. To apply, your student must have completed a 2026-2027 FAFSA. An FSA ID, used as the electronic signature, will be required to log into the application to begin. Visit studentaid.gov to apply.

Stetson University’s Office of Financial Aid has videos covering hundreds of financial aid topics at FATV.

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