APPLYING IS AS EASY AS 1-2-3

These three are key to accessing federal, state and some college-based financial aid.


step one

Create Your StudentAid.gov Account


  • Use a personal email address. Students should avoid using a school email address they may lose access to after graduation.
  • Keep student and parent information separate. Each person should use their own email address and mobile number.
  • Match legal information exactly. Name, date of birth, and Social Security number should match official records.
  • Save login information securely. You may need it for the FAFSA, loan documents, and future aid steps.

TIP:    Document and secure email used and answers to challenge questions when creating an account.

step two

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)


The FAFSA is the application for federal financial aid, including grants, work-study, and federal student loans. Many colleges also use it to award institutional aid, and it is required for Arkansas State Aid.

FAFSA Tips

Apply for State Aid


Arkansas students should also complete the state aid application for programs like the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship, AR Future Grant, and other state aid opportunities.

State Aid Checklist