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FAFSA Completion Support

Due to delays in processing FAFSA® data on the part of the U.S. Department of Education, state financial aid agencies like the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) will receive applicants’ data much later than usual this year. In light of that delay, we encourage students to complete their FAFSA® as early as possible and to anticipate a longer waiting period before the status of your State aid is updated in your New Jersey Financial Aid Management System (NJFAMS) account.

Webinar Dates
  • Thursday, 3/7 - 6pm
  • Wednesday, 3/13 - 6pm
  • Monday, 3/18 - 12pm
  • Tuesday, 3/26 - 6pm
Spanish Webinar Dates
  • Monday, 3/11 - 12pm
  • Tuesday, 3/19 - 6pm
Meeting ID: 161 9147 2863
Passcode: 094881

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https://www.zoomgov.com/u/afHTgklIh

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  • 161.199.138.10 (US West)
  • 161.199.136.10 (US East)

Next Steps Once Your FAFSA® is Completed

  • If you are a new student, create an NJFAMS account here – which is where you will be able to view your eligibility for any State aid.
  • Both new and returning students should monitor the customized ‘To Do List’ in your NJFAMS account to see if there is any additional documentation you might owe HESAA.
  • Both new and returning students can use the 2023-2024 Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) Award Estimator here to get an idea of what your approximate TAG award may be. This is an estimate of average award values for eligible, full time students and is not a guarantee of an award.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the FAFSA®?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) is an online form that must be submitted annually by current and prospective college students (undergraduate and graduate) in the United States to determine their eligibility for federal student financial aid.

Why do I need to file a FAFSA®?

The U.S. Department of Education uses the information provided on your FAFSA® to determine your eligibility for aid from federal student financial assistance programs. New Jersey uses the FAFSA® to determine your state grant and scholarship eligibility. Colleges and Universities may also use the FAFSA® data to award their own aid.

What will I need to start my FAFSA®?

  • Federal Student Aid Account ID for Parents and Students
  • 2021 Tax Returns for Parents and Students for the 2023-24 college academic year, or
  • 2022 Tax Returns for Parents and Students for the 2024-25 college academic year
  • Social Security Numbers for Parents and Students
  • Other Income Information
  • State Issued Driver's License
  • Documentation demonstrating U.S. citizenship or permanent residency

What is the State deadline to complete the FAFSA®?

For all State financial aid deadlines, click here.

Helpful Resources

FAFSA® Completion Instructions FAFSA® FAQ's
Create and Access Your StudentAid.gov Account Video YouTube Video
FAFSA® Changes for 2024-25: An Overview YouTube Video
Who is a contributor on the 2024-25 FAFSA®? YouTube Video
New Jersey Financial Aid Management System (NJFAMS) View/​Download(PDF)
HESAA Publications View/​Download