Any college student looking to obtain federal student loans will need to fill out a substantial amount of paperwork and provide documentation with it. The loan application must then be processed and reviewed.

Since the whole procedure may take several months or more, it is a good idea to begin researching federal student loans 6-12 months before you hope to begin classes. For high school students, the fall or winter of their senior year is the right time to start. If you are an older student returning to school, or beginning after entering the work force, it makes sense to begin your research as soon as you make the decision to take classes.

Where to Start

The process begins with filling out the FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid. For high school students and young adults, initial research must be done to understand what is required – such things as determining your dependency status. FAFSA provides an initial worksheet which will give prospective students an idea of their eligibility. And because there is an application deadline date for each semester, getting organized and doing the research early will make the whole thing easier and less stressful.

The deadline is typically about 2 months prior to the start of classes for a given semester. Be sure to compile items like social security number, a copy of your birth certificate, custody or adoption papers if applicable, and proof of residency to include with your application once you start filling it out.

This article was formerly published at FedTuition.com, which has been discontinued.

Filed under: Completing the Forms • Student Loans