Quick Tip: FAFSA tip

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Here's a quick tip on what students must know to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA.

The applications are now live for the 2026-2027 school year.

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The National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators recommends that you fill out the application as soon as you can.

The Education Department will continue to process the FAFSA forms despite the ongoing U.S. government shutdown.

The application for these future years must be submitted by the end of June of 2027, however, students are encouraged to apply much earlier.

In Illinois awards are made until all funds are depleted.

You can prepare to fill out the form by gathering your Social Security number, driver's license number, federal income tax returns. You should also have your W-2s, bank statements, and other financial records handy.