Deadlines
The FAFSA should be completed in the early spring for the following fall. Aid is awarded on a rolling basis, first come-first served, with February 1st serving as a priority date. Late filers have fewer chances of getting aid. Only one application is required to determine eligibility. For Tennessee residents, the FAFSA will also determine eligibility for a Tennessee Student Assistance Award and the Tennessee HOPE Scholarship. Applications should be filed in October after the new FAFSA application is available.
A family’s ability to contribute may fluctuate from year to year. Therefore, awards are made for one academic year only. Each applicant must apply annually. The FAFSA can be completed online at www.fafsa.ed.gov.