If you’ve visited the FAFSA website lately, you may have noticed there are two applications available: 2016-2017 and 2017-2018. So, which one do you need if you’re taking summer classes? Here’s what you need to know.
Financial aid is determined one year at a time, and follows your school’s academic calendar. Most schools start the academic year in the fall, and the following summer is the end of the year. In this case, your summer financial aid is a “trailer” for the 2016-2017 academic year; you would need to complete the 2016-2017 FAFSA to help pay for summer 2017 classes.
However, some institutions begin their academic year with the summer semester and the following spring is the end of the year. In this case, your summer financial aid is considered a “header” for the 2017-2018 academic year; you would need to complete the 2017-2018 FAFSA to help pay for summer 2017 classes.
All it takes is a quick email, phone call, or visit to your school’s financial aid office to confirm which FAFSA is needed for summer courses. Make sure you check in with them as soon as possible. The last day to submit your 2016-2017 FAFSA is June 30, 2017.
Once you know which FAFSA you need, head over to FAFSA.gov to complete the application!