2027-28 FAFSA Walkthrough

This 2027–28 FAFSA Walkthrough guides students and parents through the financial aid process from start to finish. We begin with creating the required StudentAid.gov accounts, including important tips to help avoid common mistakes that can delay access to the FAFSA. I explain what information students and parents should have ready, how the account setup works, and what to double-check before moving forward. The walkthrough then takes you step by step through completing the FAFSA for a dependent student and their parent contributor. Along the way, I share practical tips, explain confusing questions in plain language, and point out areas where families often make mistakes. By the end, students and parents will understand their roles, how to complete and submit their portions correctly, and what happens after the FAFSA is submitted.