Millions Miss Out on Aid Due to FAFSA Errors; Ensure You’re Not One of Them

Millions Miss Out on Aid Due to FAFSA Errors:Applying for federal student aid is crucial for millions of students, but each year, countless applicants miss out due to FAFSA errors. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the gateway to grants, scholarships, and low-interest loans, yet small mistakes can result in delays, reduced aid, or even outright denial.

According to the National College Attainment Network (NCAN), over $3.6 billion in federal aid goes unclaimed every year due to FAFSA mistakes or incomplete applications. With recent FAFSA system updates leading to increased application errors and processing delays, students need to be extra careful in 2025.

This guide will walk you through common FAFSA mistakes, how to avoid them, and how to fix errors if you’ve already submitted your application.

Millions Miss Out on Aid Due to FAFSA Errors

Avoiding FAFSA mistakes can mean the difference between getting the financial aid you need and struggling to pay for college. With billions of dollars in aid unclaimed each year, students must ensure their applications are accurate, complete, and submitted on time.

By double-checking your information, meeting deadlines, and following up on FAFSA status, you can maximize your aid eligibility and secure the funding you deserve. For official FAFSA resources and to apply, visit FAFSA.gov.

FAFSA and Why It Matters

The FAFSA determines eligibility for federal student aid, including:

• Pell Grants (up to $7,395 per year, free money that doesn’t need to be repaid).
• Federal student loans (with lower interest rates than private loans).
• Work-study programs (on-campus jobs that help cover costs).
• State and institutional aid (many schools use FAFSA data to distribute scholarships).

Missing FAFSA deadlines or making mistakes can result in lost financial aid opportunities, leaving students with higher out-of-pocket costs or forcing them to take on more debt.

Most Common FAFSA Errors and How to Avoid Them

Filling out the FAFSA is not difficult, but small mistakes can lead to big consequences. Here are the most frequent FAFSA errors and what you can do to prevent them:

1. Missing the FAFSA Deadline

Each state and college has its own FAFSA deadline, in addition to the federal deadline (June 30, 2025).

Millions Miss Out on Aid Due to FAFSA Errors Avoid:

• Check your state’s FAFSA deadline here.
• Submit your application ASAP—many states award grants on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Mark deadlines on your calendar or set reminders.

2. Entering Incorrect Personal Information

Many students make simple errors like misspelling their name, entering the wrong Social Security Number (SSN), or using an incorrect date of birth.

Millions Miss Out on Aid Due to FAFSA Errors Avoid:

• Double-check name, SSN, and date of birth exactly as they appear on official documents.
• Use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool (DRT) to automatically import tax information, reducing manual errors.

3. Leaving Fields Blank

Blank fields can trigger FAFSA processing issues or reduce your financial aid eligibility.

Millions Miss Out on Aid Due to FAFSA Errors Avoid:

• If a question doesn’t apply, enter “0” instead of leaving it blank.
• Double-check every section before submitting.

4. Using Estimated or Incorrect Tax Information

Many students and parents estimate tax information, which can cause discrepancies when verified.

Millions Miss Out on Aid Due to FAFSA Errors to Avoid:

• Use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to directly pull tax info from the IRS.
• If you estimate, update your FAFSA as soon as your tax return is filed.

5. Incorrectly Reporting Household Size & Income

Your household size affects your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and aid eligibility.

Millions Miss Out on Aid Due to FAFSA Errors Avoid:

• Include everyone in your household, even those not attending college (siblings, dependents, etc.).
• Report all untaxed income (child support, disability benefits, etc.).

6. Forgetting to Sign the FAFSA

If you don’t sign your FAFSA, it won’t be processed!

Millions Miss Out on Aid Due to FAFSA Errors Avoid:

• Both student and parent (if dependent) must sign using their FSA ID.
• If filing a paper FAFSA, ensure it is physically signed before mailing.

7. Not Checking the FAFSA Status After Submission

Many students assume their FAFSA is processed instantly, but errors or missing documents can delay it.

Millions Miss Out on Aid Due to FAFSA Errors Avoid:

• Log in to FAFSA.gov and check your application status regularly.
• Look for email notifications from FAFSA and your school’s financial aid office.

Millions Miss Out on Aid Due to FAFSA Errors Fix FAFSA Errors After Submission

Mistakes happen, but the good news is you can fix FAFSA errors.

Steps to Make Corrections:

• Log into FAFSA.gov and select “Make FAFSA Corrections.”
• Edit incorrect information (SSN changes require contacting the Federal Student Aid office).
• Resubmit the corrected FAFSA and check your updated Student Aid Report (SAR).
• Follow up with your college’s financial aid office if additional documents are required.

FAQs

1. Who should complete the FAFSA?

All college-bound students-even if you don’t think you qualify for aid, many schools require it for scholarships.

2. Can I submit the FAFSA without my parents’ information?

If you’re considered independent, yes. Otherwise, parent information is required unless you qualify for an exemption.

3. How long does FAFSA processing take?

Typically 3-5 days if filed online, but errors or corrections can delay processing.

4. Do I need to file a FAFSA every year?

Yes! You must renew your FAFSA each year to receive financial aid.

5. How do I know how much aid I qualify for?

You’ll receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) and a financial aid offer from your school.