What Is FAFSA and How Does It Work?

Amanda Holland

Amanda Holland is equally passionate about math and grammar. She spent several years as a signals analyst for the Defense Department. After her two kids were born, she transitioned to a career as a freelance writer. When she isn't crafting content, she's usually reading, baking, or playing video games.

Articles by Amanda

Finding Scholarships for High School Juniors

Finding Scholarships for High School Juniors

January 21, 2022

Financial aid that is awarded to students based on merit is called merit aid (or merit scholarships). Unlike need-based aid,…

Pay It Forward: Our Road2College Community Members Share What They’ve Learned From Each Other

Pay It Forward: Our Road2College Community Members Share What They’ve Learned From Each Other

December 14, 2021

The stories shared here were first published in our Paying for College 101 Facebook community. They’ve been edited for clarity…

How to Become a Nurse: Degrees in Nursing

How to Become a Nurse: Degrees in Nursing

December 7, 2021

Nurses are in high demand. A career in nursing offers multiple career paths, flexibility, a good salary, and the opportunity…

Teacher Tips: How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation for College

Teacher Tips: How to Ask for a Letter of Recommendation for College

November 11, 2021

Two of our community members offer their advice. This story was first published in our Paying for College 101 Facebook…

What Is FAFSA and How Does It Work?

What Is FAFSA and How Does It Work?

November 11, 2021

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is one of the most important components of the college application. This…

A Guide to Preparing for College Admissions Testing

A Guide to Preparing for College Admissions Testing

October 18, 2021

Many high school students find college admissions testing stressful, but the right preparation can ensure a positive test day experience…

The Ultimate College Application Checklist

The Ultimate College Application Checklist

September 24, 2021

The fall of your child’s senior year of high school is the time to start the college application process. It…

Avoid These Common FAFSA Mistakes

Avoid These Common FAFSA Mistakes

October 12, 2019

Filling out the FAFSA is one of the most important things you do as you pursue funding for your child’s…