Your Financial Aid Checklist

If you have a college-bound student at home, you might have questions about the financial aid process, and we have answers. Whether you've started to apply for aid, or haven't yet begun, you'll benefit from our financial aid checklist below. We've provided the information and instructions you need to get you started in the process, and to stay on track. Complete each task now to stay one step ahead.

1. Make note of deadlines. Each college has a different financial aid deadline, and it's the family's responsibility to keep track of each one. You'll need to visit every school's financial aid website to find all relevant dates. Deadlines within the financial aid process are extremely important, as not meeting deadlines could mean no financial aid, so make sure you have a system in place to stay on task.
2. Find out the required applications. You'll need to submit the FAFSA^® (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as part of every college's financial aid process, but you may be required to submit additional applications as well. Check each school's website to get the facts.
3. Get your FSA ID. Both the student and one parent will need an FSA ID to submit the FAFSA. Though the FAFSA doesn't become available until October ^1st (and for families completing the 2024-25 application, it will not be available until December 2023), you can get your FSA ID anytime. Do so now right online.
4. Learn your EFC. As you apply for financial aid, your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) will be calculated, a number that represents what your family can contribute toward college costs. Colleges use your EFC to determine your financial aid. You can complete MEFA's EFC Calculator now to get your family's EFC estimate.
5. Seek help when needed. If you'd like to work with someone to complete your FAFSA, you can register for a free FAFSA Day event, which provides FAFSA help to families in Massachusetts throughout the winter months. You can also contact an Educational Opportunity Center for assistance.

As you navigate the financial aid process, we're here to help you every step of the way. Sign up for our emails to receive timely reminders, and visit our website frequently for important guidance. If you have questions, you can reach one of our helpful team members by phone at (800) 449-MEFA (6332) or email at collegeplanning@mefa.org.

Learn more about applying for financial aid