A few years ago a close family member contacted me for assistance with completing his Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). We discussed the differences between loans and gift aid (e.g. grants). In the coming weeks, we exchanged text messages and he asked me, “Are you sure FAFSA is free? I have completed my form and in order to be eligible for financial aid it reads that I have to submit my credit card information.”
I immediately called him and asked what website he was on. I informed him that the FAFSA has always been free and if there is a fee it’s a scam. Over the years, I have also come across websites seeking individual’s social security number and payment information to apply for scholarships. The FAFSA is free, hence the first word, “FREE” Application for Federal Student Aid, and organizations that award legitimate scholarships will not ask you to pay to apply.
Please read scholarship applications closely to avoid scams. Also, the only place online to submit your FAFSA is through: https://fafsa.ed.gov/ .
Remember to submit your FAFSA as soon as possible for the 2017-2018 academic year.
Feel free to contact me if you have questions.
Happy New Year!
~Dr. O