December 2, 2025
Filling out paperwork probably isn’t what comes to mind when you think about cooler weather and cozy fall and winter activities. But completing the FAFSA is absolutely something that should make it onto any college student’s to-do list during this time of year.
FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Students must complete this form to find out if they qualify for federal financial aid, including grants, work-study funds and loans. Colleges like GRCC also use the FAFSA data to determine eligibility for state and school-based aid.
Completing the FAFSA is the most important thing you can do if you need help paying for college. Without it, GRCC’s Financial Aid department cannot award federal and state grant dollars, scholarships or need-based aid.
The FAFSA Is More Than Student Loans
Students may be hesitant to complete the FAFSA because they do not want to take out student loans and graduate with student debt.
But completing the FAFSA is about much more than student loans. It also helps determine if you are eligible for federal and state grants, scholarships and need-based aid.
Grants and scholarships are types of aid you don’t have to pay back. As long as you use the funds appropriately and maintain satisfactory academic progress, any grant or scholarship aid is yours to put toward your education.
Many Students Qualify For At Least Some Aid
You may be surprised to learn that most students qualify for at least some aid. The Michigan Community College Guarantee and Michigan Reconnect are two good examples.
- Michigan Community College Guarantee covers in-district tuition for recent high school graduates. An additional $1,000 award for living expenses is available for students who are eligible for a federal Pell grant.
- Michigan Reconnect covers in-district tuition for Michigan residents who are 25 or older. If you live out of district, Michigan Reconnect will still cover some of your tuition costs.
Both programs require applicants to fill out the FAFSA.
When Should You Complete the FAFSA?
The FAFSA opens in October for the upcoming school year. Students who fill out the FAFSA now are applying for aid for the 2026-2027 academic year.
It’s always a good idea to complete your FAFSA as early as you can. Many types of need-based aid are awarded on a first come, first serve basis. Applying right away gives you a better chance of securing those dollars for your education.
What Information Do You Need to Complete the FAFSA?
Before you complete the FAFSA, you will need to create a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID. Your FSA ID is how you will electronically sign financial aid documents and how you will complete the FAFSA in following years (more on that in a bit!).
To create your FSA ID, you will need:
- Your Social Security number
- Your date of birth
- Your full legal name as it appears on your Social Security card
- An email address you have access to
- A mobile phone number
- A mailing address
Your Social Security number can only be associated with one FSA ID. You will not be able to make multiple accounts for yourself or create a new account if you lose access to it. Take your time while setting up your FSA ID and make sure all the information is correct.
To complete the FAFSA, you will need:
- Your FSA ID
- Your Social Security number
- Your email address
- Your parents’ email address
- Access to tax returns for the last two years (to complete the 2026-2027 FAFSA, you will need your 2024 tax return)
- GRCC’s school code: 002267
If you are considered a dependent, then a parent or guardian will also need to sign the FAFSA.
Two important things to keep in mind:
- You must enter GRCC’s school code if you want us to receive your FAFSA information. Without it, we cannot offer you financial aid.
- You must provide consent and approval for the Office of Federal Student Aid to obtain your and your contributor’s tax information automatically from the IRS. This information is used to complete the FAFSA form without having to manually enter it.
Do You Have to Complete the FAFSA Again Next Year?
If you want to continue receiving financial aid, then yes, you should plan on completing the FAFSA again next year.
Our team will be here next year to help you with any questions!
Need Help? Complete the FAFSA With GRCC
We’re here to make the FAFSA as easy as possible. The Financial Aid office is hosting a series of workshops focused on the FAFSA. We’ll be there to walk you through everything step-by-step, answer all your questions and make sure you’re ready to secure your financial aid. Don’t stress — we’ll be there to support you every step of the way!
FAFSA workshops are scheduled through May on GRCC’s Main Campus, Leslie E. Tassell MTEC and the Lakeshore Campus in Holland. You can see all upcoming workshops and locations on the Financial Aid webpage or on Raider Connect.