FAFSA and Free Support

Want help paying for college?

Start by filling out the 2025-2026 Free Application for Federal Student Aid

What is the FAFSA?

It is a form that each student must complete every year to be eligible to receive state and federal student financial aid. Additionally, many colleges/institutions and private scholarship programs use FAFSA information to award their own grants, scholarships, and loans.

Who has to complete the FAFSA?

All college-bound high school seniors and returning college students should file the 2025-2026 FAFSA.

When do I complete the FAFSA?

Starting on or before December 1st, the Department of Education will release the 2025-26 FAFSA. Students need to complete this form by May 15th to be eligible for State of Delaware scholarships or earlier because some state scholarships that require the FAFSA have a deadline in February. (Some colleges have earlier deadlines so check with their financial aid office.)

Students who file early have the best chances for scholarships and grants. Colleges and state and private scholarships have deadlines to award financial aid. Late-filers may find the free money has all been awarded.

Where I can receive help completing the FAFSA?

The Delaware Higher Education Office has partnered with Stand By Me NextGen to provide Delaware residents FREE FAFSA completion support. You will work one-on-one with a financial aid expert to complete your FAFSA and help you determine how best to pay for a college education. Learn more and schedule an appointment.

Students in Unique Situations and Populations

Students with unique situations should reach out to the college’s financial aid office for support. The National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) has created these tip sheets to help unique student populations overcome unique challenge when applying for financial aid.