APPLYING IS AS EASY AS 1-2-3
These three are key to accessing federal, state and some college-based financial aid.

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.
Create Account
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 ChecklistMORE INFO:
Before Filing
Match Social Security records exactly
The student and required parent contributor names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers should match Social Security records exactly.
How to Apply
Online is usually fastest
The official FAFSA is completed through StudentAid.gov. Applying online is typically the easiest option because built-in guidance helps students through the process and schools receive results faster.
Tax Information
Use the IRS Direct Data Exchange
When available, transferring federal tax information directly can reduce errors and simplify the FAFSA process.
After Submitting
Watch your email regularly
FAFSA and your selected colleges may request additional information before financial aid eligibility can be finalized.
Action Needed
Respond quickly to requests
Submitting requested documents promptly can help prevent delays in receiving financial aid offers.
Important Dates
Check Priority Deadlines
Many colleges and scholarship programs have priority deadlines that may impact aid eligibility.
Good to Know
The FAFSA is widely used
Most colleges, universities, career schools, and many scholarship programs use the FAFSA to determine eligibility for financial aid.
Arkansas State Aid Checklist:
Use your SAMS account to apply for and manage Arkansas scholarship and grant opportunities.
- Create a SAMS account. This login is separate from your StudentAid.gov account.
- Review program deadlines. Eligibility requirements and deadlines are posted through ADHE.
- Keep your college choice updated. Update your account if your school plans change.
- Accept your awards. Students must accept their Arkansas state aid awards through SAMS in order for funds to be routed to their college of choice.



