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How Does the FAFSA Work?

The FAFSA is your key to accessing various federal student aid programs, like grants, student loans, and work-study programs. Plus, applying is always free.

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By Jennifer Calonia

Written by

Jennifer Calonia

Freelance writer

Jennifer Calonia has been a personal finance expert for over 10 years. Her work has appeared on Yahoo Finance, Newsweek, and U.S. News & World Report.

Edited by Renee Fleck

Written by

Renee Fleck

Renee Fleck is a student loans editor with over six years of experience. Her work has been featured in Fast Company, Morning Brew, and Sidebar.io, among other online publications. She is fluent in Spanish and French and enjoys traveling to new places.

Updated November 15, 2023

Editorial disclosure: Our goal is to give you the tools and confidence you need to improve your finances. Although we receive compensation from our partner lenders, whom we will always identify, all opinions are our own. Credible Operations, Inc. NMLS # 1681276, is referred to here as “Credible.”

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