Before Starting the FAFSA

Determine your dependency status. The Dependency Status Worksheet will help you determine if you need to provide parental information on the FAFSA.

Gather all the documents you will need. It is recommended that you print a FAFSA on the Web Worksheet which allows you to read and complete the questions before entering your information online. The questions are listed in the same order that they appear on the Web site. You also will need the following:

• Your Social Security Number and your parents’ Social Security Numbers if you are providing parental information
• Your driver’s license number if you have one
• Your Alien Registration Number if you are not a U.S. citizen
• Federal tax information or tax returns (including IRS W-2 information) for yourself (and spouse if you are married or for your parents if you are providing parental information)
• Information on savings, investments, and business and farm assets for yourself and your parents if you are providing parental information
• Untaxed income records such as child support, veterans noneducation benefits, and worker's comp

Apply for a PIN. You and your parents (if you are a dependent student) will need to sign your FAFSA. Using a personal identification number (PIN) to sign electronically is by far the fastest and most reliable way. Your FAFSA can’t be processed until all signatures are received. Save your PIN as you will need it to complete your FAFSA in future years.

Check deadlines. Pay close attention to deadlines. The deadline dates for your state or schools may be different from the federal deadline. The FAFSA should be completed as soon as possible after January 1 each year. The priority date in North Dakota is March 15.