top of page

Basic Eligibility

To get need-based federal student aid, you must show that you need financial help and meet a few other rules. You must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen and have a valid Social Security number (unless you are from the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, or the Republic of Palau).

You also need to be enrolled or accepted into a degree or certificate program as a regular student. You must keep up good grades in school and agree to let your federal tax information be shared on your FAFSA® form. You’ll also need to sign a form saying you’re not behind on a federal student loan, you don’t owe money on a federal grant, and you’ll only use the aid for school. Finally, you must show you are ready and able to attend college or career school.

To get federal student aid, you must:

  • Show you need help paying for school

  • Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen

  • Have a valid Social Security number

  • Be accepted or enrolled in a college or career program

  • Complete your classes with a passing grade and complete the required percentage of registered classses. Contact the school for more information on their satisifactory academic progress policy

  • Agree to share your tax info on the FAFSA

  • Promise you’ll use the aid for school only

  • Have a high school diploma, GED, or finished homeschool (or be in a special program that helps you get into college).  You can show you’re ready for college or career school by:
    Finishing high school or earning a GED certificate
    Completing homeschool that follows your state’s rules
    Joining a special career program and meeting certain rules that show you’re ready to learn there


Need help? Talk to your school’s financial aid office—they can help explain special cases or other ways to qualify.

Quick Tips

  • You must show financial need and have a valid Social Security number.

  • Be accepted into a college program and keep up good grades.

  • Include tax info on your FAFSA and use aid only for school costs.

  • Have a high school diploma, GED, or approved homeschool background.

bottom of page