Every year on Oct. 1, seniors around the country begin filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application allows students to become eligible  for any federal student aid to finance college, such as federal grants, work-study and loans.  

This same application is what many colleges use to determine eligibility for state and school aid.  Even if you are not expected to receive much aid from the government, it is still worth filling the FAFSA out so that schools have a better idea of who should receive aid.  

Here are some links that can help you get started on completing the FAFSA:  

https://blog.ed.gov/2017/09/8-steps-to-filling-out-the-fafsa-form/

https://blog.ed.gov/2017/09/12-common-fafsa-mistakes-2/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/janetberryjohnson/2017/10/01/expert-tips-for-filling-out-the-fafsa/#2dec57f61f6e

Although FAFSA is currently not working for many people, it is expected to be up and running soon.