<h2>Hello! I recently sent in my graduate school applications. I didn't submit the FAFSA, because I didn't get anything in undergrad-- my family makes 100k+ a year, plenty of savings, no debt, pretty much what we expected. I'm looking at scholarship info for one of my schools and see this:</h2>
<h2>Need-based tuition grants (generally around 20% of tuition) are available on a limited basis to qualifying students who are enrolled at least half-time. Students apply for need-based aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). </h2>
<p>Should I fill out the FAFSA? Is it useless? I can't remember if it's something everyone should submit, or not to bother if there's virtually no chance of getting aid. My brother will be starting college next year as well, so I'm not sure if that'd affect anything. </p>
<p>Thanks! I feel like a clueless high school senior again.</p>
<p>EDIT: Wait, it says I'm independent because I'm in grad school, I guess. Does this change things?</p>
<p>Yes you are independent so only your income and assets will be considered. Yes, in my opinion, you should complete and submit the FAFSA. If nothing else, you will be able to,Direct Loans if needed.</p>
<p>Since you are a graduate student you will no longer qualify for the pell, but there are loans as thumper said. I would fill it out. It is fairly easy to do since you will only be using your information.</p>
<p>Definitely complete the FAFSA. I work at a grad school, and we have need-based grants for students based on the FAFSA EFC … and we do not request any parent info (some programs, especially med schools, will ask for parent info even though the student is independent for federal aid purposes). It’s easy to complete the FAFSA, and you might be pleasantly surprised. Plus, you do need it in order to borrow federal loans.</p>
<p>Very interesting, thank you for all the help. I had no idea I would be considered independent. What if I already submitted my applications and checked that I would not be applying for financial aid? Also, I’m not particularly interested in loans-- my parents are willing to pay, but would it help me get any grants or scholarships that don’t need to be paid back?</p>