1.  Create a StudentAid.gov Account
If you have not done so already, you will need to create a StudentAid.gov account to apply for, receive and manage your federal student aid. This will create an FSA ID (username and password) that is used to electronically sign your FAFSA. If you are a dependent student, a parent will also need to create a StudentAid.gov account.

You will use the same FSA ID to reapply for financial aid each year.  Watch this video on creating a StudentAid.gov account.

New!  Changes Starting with the 2024-25 FAFSA
A contributor is a new term on the 2024-25 FAFSA. A contributor is anyone who is required to provide consent and approval to have their federal tax information transferred directly from the IRS into the FAFSA form and provide a signature on the form. A contributor is:

• You, the student, and, if applicable, contributors may also include,
• Your spouse,
• Your parent,
• Your parent's spouse or partner

Starting with the 2024-25 FAFSA, you and each contributor will need to create a StudentAid.gov account to enter information and complete their section of the FAFSA. This will create an FSA ID (username and password) that is used to electronically sign the FAFSA.
Each contributor will need to enter information and complete their section of the FAFSA.  Watch this video to learn about contributors.

Contributors who do not have a social security number are experiencing issues starting or accessing the 2024-25 FAFSA. The U.S. Department of Education is aware of these issues and is working on resolutions.  See FAFSA Contributor Updates and use the link below for more Information.

• How to Submit the 2024-25 FAFSA Form if Your Contributor Doesn't Have an SSN

IMPORTANT: An incomplete 2024-25 FAFSA will be deleted 45 days from the last time you or any contributor performed an action that saved the application. A FAFSA cannot be considered submitted until all required contributors have completed, signed and submitted their sections. 

2.  Gather Information
You will need to have specific information available when completing the FAFSA.

• Information You'll Need FAFSA 2024-25.PDF
• Information You'll Need FAFSA 2023-24.PDF

We encourage you to complete the FAFSA as early as possible to maximize your chances of receiving assistance.

You must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every academic year.

• 2024-25 FAFSA (use 2022 federal tax information)
• 2023-24 FAFSA (use 2021 federal tax information)

Be sure to add Harper College's School Code: 003961 to ensure that your information is sent to Harper.

The FAFSA is available in English and Spanish. For assistance in English or Spanish, contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center (FSAIC).

Interpretation services are available for assistance in a different language. See information on requesting an interpreter.

There are follow-up steps for you to take after completing the FAFSA.

1.  Review the Student Aid Report (SAR) / FAFSA Submission Summary (FSS)
Once you submit the FAFSA, the U.S Department of Education emails a copy of the information you submitted on the FAFSA.  For 2023-24, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR).  For 2024-25, you will receive a confirmation email and FAFSA Submission Summary (FSS). You may also view your SAR/FSS online. If there are any errors or rejections noted on the SAR/FSS, promptly follow the instructions to make the corrections. You may request assistance from Harper College with making corrections.

2.  Complete and Submit Requested Documents to Harper College
We may request additional forms and documents to verify your eligibility and the information you provided on the FAFSA. You must submit these within the Federal verification and disbursement deadlines. Failure to provide this information and respond to discrepancies may result in you not receiving financial aid.

We send financial aid requirements and other important information via email. You can view your outstanding requirements in the Finances tab on the MyHarper Portal. Click on View my Financial Aid Checklist and Details and then select the appropriate aid year. Follow the instructions and include the required signatures. While reviewing your information, corrections may be required to your FAFSA and these will be made by the financial aid staff.

3.  Complete the Title IV Authorization Form
Every student receiving federal student aid is required to complete the Title IV Authorization Form each year. This form is in your requirements in the Finances tab on the MyHarper Portal.

4.  Receive a Financial Aid Notification.
Harper College will email you a Financial Aid Notification with information about your financial aid for the academic year.