FAFSA Checklist: The Documents You Need for 2025-26
This FAFSA checklist can help you determine which documents you may need to complete the 2025-26 form.
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When can I submit my FAFSA application? The FAFSA for the 2025-26 academic year is now open for all students. FAFSA applications for the current academic year, 2024-25, can be submitted until June 30, 2025.
All U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible for federal student aid, but they must fill out the FAFSA to qualify. Keep reading to figure out which documents you'll need to fill out the FAFSA, depending on which year's form you're working on. You should also make sure you meet the FAFSA requirements.
2025-26 FAFSA checklist
The federal FASFA deadline for the new 2025-26 form is June 30, 2026 — but you shouldn't delay. Many schools and states set FAFSA deadlines a year or more earlier. Most students can complete the FAFSA in an hour or less, according to the Education Department.
As of the 2024-25 award year, the FAFSA requires fewer documents for most students. That's because the form directly imports income and tax information from the IRS.
Here are the documents you (and your parents or spouse) may need to fill out the 2025-26 FAFSA:
Your Social Security number, so you can create a StudentAid.gov account and request an FSA ID.
Your 2023 tax returns.
Records of child support received.
Current balances of cash, savings and checking accounts.
Net worth of investments, businesses and farms.
How to answer FAFSA questions based on your status
Family structure (dependent students):
Family structure (independent students):
Immigration status: