The FAFSA: Application, Form, Ins & Outs

Filing a Fafsa application is one of the best ways to start your preparation for a higher education. If your situation requires you to pay for college, then you'll need financial aid for single mothers, working students, or any other situation that doesn't inherently come with wealth. Your starting point is the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA form, application, and guidelines are a precursor to most grants for education, scholarships for college, and financial aid. If you register for scholarships on this site, a prepared FAFSA form will help you get the most out of it. Single mothers, working moms, working students, here's what you need to know.

What is the FAFSA?

In short, the FAFSA is the form that comes before education grants, college scholarships, and financial aids. For single mothers and other working students, it's a means to pay for college. The FAFSA application determines the Expected Family Contribution (EFC), a number calculated from factors such as household size, income, and assets. The FAFSA does not ask for demographic information, such as race or gender.

Who can fill out a FAFSA application?

Whether you'll get financial aid after your FAFSA application depends on other factors. But before that, you must meet certain requirements first. Fafsa applicants must:

• Be US citizens
• Have a social security number and;
• Possess a high school diploma/GED

Other eligible applicants are:

• Married individuals
• Parents over 24 years of age
• Military veterans
• Grad students and;
• Wards of state

Some FAFSA exceptions apply (see the FAFSA application website for more details. But, just about every woman seeking financial aid for single mothers, working moms, or stay-at-home moms can apply.

What can I get with my FAFSA form?

A FAFSA application immediately qualifies you for federal loans: Pell Grant, Stafford Loan, Perkins Loan,, PLUS Loan, and other financial aid. In addition, most states and schools use the FAFSA form to determine the type financial aid to give. For single moms needing college financial aid, the FAFSA form can open up many doors.

FAFSA Application Tips

For situations where funding is absolutely critical (e.g. financial aid for single mothers), it is recommended that the FAFSA form is completed as soon as possible. Financial aid is in limited supply and can be depleted quickly. So, a timely application is important. Take note: you can now complete your Fafsa on the web. It's easier and it will save you a lot of time. Remember to confirm all information is correct (tax data, school codes, etc) before sending your Fafsa application in.

It's a long process, and it can be intimidating. But, the FAFSA form can be the most important application you'll fill out for college. Financial aid for single mothers, working mothers, and stay-at-home moms is out there now. Go and get it!