Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your starting point for most student financial assistance programs. Many states and schools also use the FAFSA as part of their application process for non-federal aid.
The FAFSA is a comprehensive form. Be prepared to provide extensive information about your family’s income and income taxes from the previous year, assets, family size, the number of family members attending college, and more.
To maximize your chances of getting student financial aid, submit the FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1st of the year for which you are requesting aid.
If you apply before January 1st or without a Social Security number, your application will not be processed.
https://www.collegeanswer.com/paying-for-college/financial-aid/fafsa/default.aspx