In order to receive federal financial aid and most state financial aid, students must:
- qualify for financial need (except for certain loans and some state gift assistance programs)
- have a high school diploma or a General Education Development (GED) certificate, or pass a test approved by the U.S. Department of Education
- be working toward a degree or certificate
- be enrolled in an eligible program
- be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- have a valid Social Security Number
- register with the Selective Service if required
- maintain satisfactory academic progress once in school
The Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA), as amended, suspends aid eligibility for students who have been convicted under federal or state law for the sale or possession of drugs. Students who have a conviction(s) for these offenses, should contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 800-4-FED-AID (800.433.3243) to find out if, or how, this law applies to them.
Students who may be ineligible for federal aid, should still complete the FAFSA, as they may be eligible for nonfederal aid from states and private institutions.
For additional information on student eligibility, see Volume 1 - Student Eligibility of the Federal Student Aid Handbook.
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