January 1, 2012 is the start of the 2012-2013 college year and all students (new or ongoing) hoping to receive financial aid for this period must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, the sooner the better. The form is available as a paper version, PDF or there is an on line version. The application will only be accepted after the first, but any and all aid is based first on results of this form and all aid is first come first serve the sooner your student may get in line.

Private colleges and some public also require and electronically completed CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE Form as well and you will want to determine if a school your student is interested in requires this form. Understand that this form is more invasive than the FAFSA and will requires information the FAFSA does not.

Then some schools, mostly private, require completion of their own forms for aid. Graduate and some professional school students may also have to complete a Need Access Application.

To find out which forms are required by schools your student is interested in should be in the information booklets you have receive or on the schools website.

Caution:

1. These forms take thought, care, research and time. Do not rush to get them completed.

2. Make sure that you have all of the correct information required before you get started.

3. I stress correct, even more that you Tax return, these are forms you do not want to hedge on or provide almost correct information. Although the IRS must get a subpoena to see your FAFSA form the Secretary of Education has the authority to verify information of the FAFSA with the IRS.

4. Make darn sure you use the correct FAFSA form; for 2012-2013 the paper form is orange and purple.

The paper FAFSA can be obtained from most school guidance counselors or by calling (1-800-433-3243). Make sure you ask for the specific year form. To down load or complete on line go to www.fafsa.ed.gov.