- We heard it is better to submit FAFSA whether we qualify for need-based aid or not in year 1 so that down the road in year 2 or 3 or 4 , if needed FAFSA is in place. Is that the case?
Are you an international student? If not, you very likely can submit the FAFSA in subsequent years even if you don’t submit as an incoming freshman. Check each school policy, but there are really only a small number that have restrictions for U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
- Is FAFSA something you submit right away while applying or is it something you submit every year?
The FAFSA is available for completion and submission beginning October 1 of the students senior year of high school (for freshman year. And every year on October 1st the next year one becomes available).
The FAFSA is completed each year your student is in college.
- if you submit FAFSA, do you have the option of not checking the " are you applying for financial aid" box on common app? Does it hurt or help the chances one way or the other?
You can always submit a Fafsa for consideration for a Pell Grant or getting the Direct Loan. If you check the NO box for wanting financial aid on the common application, it’s very possible a college won’t consider you for institutional need based aid.
@QuestInfo I also think your question would better be answered in the financial aid forum. Would you like it moved there!