Do You Need to Register for the Selective Service to Receive Financial Aid?

You no longer need to register for the Selective Service to access federal financial aid for college. The Selective Service is a government agency that registers men for military drafting in the event of a national emergency. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, used to require Selective Service registration to be eligible for aid. However, this changed for the 2021-22 award year. The rule was eliminated as a part of the FAFSA Simplification Act of 2020.

» MORE: What Are the FAFSA Requirements?

Do you still have to register for the Selective Service?

Although Selective Service registration is no longer required to receive federal financial aid, it is still required for almost all males (according to their sex assigned at birth) ages 18-25. You must register within 30 days of turning 18 if you’re a U.S. citizen or within 30 days of entering the country as an immigrant.

If you don’t register with the Selective Service, you won’t be eligible for federal job training or a federal job. You can also face a felony charge, a fine of up to $250,000 and jail time of up to five years.

Changes coming to the FAFSA

The FAFSA Simplification Act of 2020 is bringing changes to future FAFSA applications. Beginning with the 2021-22 award year, having a drug conviction while receiving federal financial aid will no longer prevent you from receiving aid for college.

Also, starting with the 2023-24 FAFSA, questions about Selective Service registration and drug convictions will no longer be on the form.