"will file" to "have filed"

Paying for College
1

<p>I filled out the FAFSA under "will file" on Jan 8, processed Jan 9. Does this "keep my place in line," per se, for state/government funding and such? Or does it not really count until you have filed? Because my mom still hasn't gotten her last W2 to finalize her tax returns, so we don't have the ability to finalize the FAFSA yet. I'm afraid to miss out on opportunities for federal aid for this reason.
Also, is the Pell Grant guaranteed based on EFC or on a first-come, first-served basis? Our EFC on the SAR is 0, so I know I have the ability to get the full 5.55k... another award I do not want to risk because my mom hasn't gotten her W2.</p>

<p>Thanks everyone!</p>

2

<p>It really depends on the school for certain limited funding like SEOG, Perkins, and work study. Some will use the estimated date and others will not, so it’s best to ask your FA office. The larger programs like federal direct loans and Pell grants are guaranteed, although the actual award amounts are subject to changes in funding by Congress.</p>

3

<p>Okay, thank you! I just sent the email. As for the last part, do you mean the changing from the 0 EFC from 32k to 23k? Because we are well below that range, so I know I’d still get the full amount. Unless there’s something else afoot?</p>