Decoding the FAFSA Dilemma- Who Should Fill Out the Form – The Student or the Parent-

Does the student or parent fill out FAFSA? This is a common question that many families ask when considering financial aid for their college-bound child. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial form that determines the amount of financial aid a student can receive from the government, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Understanding who should fill out the FAFSA is essential for students and parents to secure the financial support they need to pursue higher education.

Traditionally, the parent is the one responsible for filling out the FAFSA. This is because the financial information required on the form is based on the parent’s income, assets, and household size. However, there are certain situations where the student may be required to fill out the FAFSA independently. Let’s explore the factors that determine who should fill out the FAFSA.

Firstly, if the student is a dependent student, the parent should fill out the FAFSA. Dependent students are those who are younger than 24, have not been married, are not have children, and are not an orphan or ward of the court. In this case, the parent’s financial information is used to calculate the Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which is a key factor in determining the student’s financial aid eligibility.

On the other hand, if the student is an independent student, they may be responsible for filling out the FAFSA. Independent students are those who are 24 or older, married, have children, are an orphan or ward of the court, or are a veteran. In these cases, the student’s financial information is used to calculate their EFC, and they may have access to additional financial aid options that are not available to dependent students.

It’s important to note that even if the student is considered independent, they may still need to provide information about their parents on the FAFSA. This is to ensure that the student’s financial situation is accurately assessed. However, the student’s own financial information will take precedence over their parents’ when determining the EFC.

When filling out the FAFSA, both students and parents should gather all necessary financial documents, such as tax returns, W-2 forms, and bank statements. This information will help them complete the form accurately and efficiently. It’s also important to remember that the FAFSA must be submitted annually, as financial aid eligibility can change from year to year.

In conclusion, the question of whether the student or parent should fill out the FAFSA depends on the student’s dependency status. Parents should fill out the FAFSA for dependent students, while independent students should fill it out on their own. Both students and parents should take the time to understand the FAFSA process and ensure they provide accurate financial information to maximize their chances of securing the financial aid they need for college.