Complete the FAFSA for Financial Aid Opportunities
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your gateway to financial assistance. The federal government uses this form to determine your family’s expected contribution to educational expenses.
Students enrolling in Fall 2026 should complete the 2026-2027 FAFSA, which requires 2024 tax information. Ensure your 2024 taxes have been filed.
How to Complete the FAFSA
1. Gather Required Documents
You’ll need each contributor’s legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, and valid email address.
2. Identify All Contributors
Contributors include the student, student’s spouse (if married), and parent(s).
The “other parent” is required if marital status is “Not Married, but Living Together” or tax filing status is “Married and Filing Separately.”
3. Create FSA IDs
All contributors need individual FSA IDs to sign and submit the FAFSA online.
Important FSA ID tips:
- Parents need separate username/password combinations
- Students should use their own information, not parents’
- Use a personal email (not school email) that you’ll maintain after graduation
- Link both email and phone to your account
- Set up challenge questions for account recovery
4. Complete the FAFSA Form
All contributors must consent to IRS Direct Data Exchange, which transfers tax data to colleges listed on your FAFSA (up to 20 schools). Be sure to include Presbyterian College! Our code is 003445
If a student initiates the FAFSA:
- Student completes: Personal circumstances, Demographics, Financials, Colleges, Signature
- Contributors have 45 days to complete their sections: Demographics, Financials, Signature
If a parent initiates the FAFSA:
- Student (as contributor) has 45 days to provide consent and signature
- Parent completes all student sections plus parent sections
5. Review for Accuracy
Double-check all information before submission.
After Submission
You’ll receive a processing notification email from the Department of Education. Log in anytime to review your information and Student Aid Index (SAI), which determines eligibility for need-based programs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing Deadlines: Submit early and be aware of state and school-specific deadlines
- Incomplete Information: Verify all contributors have completed their sections and confirm submission status
Tips for Success
- Start early and submit as soon as possible
- Securely save your FSA ID and confirmation information
- Contact us if your financial or family circumstances change
Types of Available Financial Aid
Completing the FAFSA may qualify you for:
- Federal Pell Grant
- Federal SEOG
- Federal Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized loans
- Federal Work-Study
- Federal Direct PLUS Loan
- Federal TEACH Grant
- South Carolina Tuition Grant
- PC Grant
- Various private scholarships that require FAFSA data
Federal Work-Study
The Federal Work-Study Program provides part-time jobs for students with financial need, helping them earn money to cover educational expenses. Work-study jobs are available on and off campus, often in roles related to community service or a student’s field of study.
Why Consider Work-Study?
- Earn money while enrolled in college.
- Gain valuable work experience for your future career.
- Work hours are designed to fit around your class schedule.
100%
Of students receive financial aid to offset tuition costs.
27 million
Total institutional dollars that we invest in all students.
$37,000
Is the average financial aid offered to incoming students.
FAQs about Federal Aid and the FAFSA
About Federal Aid
FAFSA Information
After Submitting FAFSA
Got MORE Questions About Financial Aid? We’ve Got Answers.
Check out short, helpful videos that explain everything from scholarships to FAFSA at Presbyterian College’s Financial Aid TV. It’s a quick, easy way to get the info you need—anytime.