FAFSA Completion

To get started on the application you will need to:

1. Go to FSA ID.gov to apply for a FSA ID, so you can electronically sign your online FAFSA application.
    
2. Go to FAFSA.gov and choose the FAFSA you wish to complete.
   1. The 2020-2021 FAFSA covers Fall 2020/Spring 2021 and depending eligibility Summer 2020
       
3. The 2020-2021 FAFSA is based off of 2018 Tax Information. Please be as accurate as possible by using the tax forms and W2's while completing the FAFSA. 
    

Submit the FAFSA application listing Rock Valley College (and any other institutions) as an intended recipient of your information.

Note: The Rock Valley College school code is: 001747
 

Common FAFSA Mistakes
 

• Tax information: pay attention to line numbers:

  • If you filed a 1040: for “Adjusted Gross Income” use line #37; for “Taxes Paid” use line #56 minus line #46.
     
  • If you filed a 1040A: for “Adjusted Gross Income” use line #21; for “Taxes Paid” use line #28 minus line #36
     
  • If you filed a 1040EZ: for “Adjusted Gross Income” use line #4; for “Taxes Paid” use line #10
     
• Enter a “0” instead of leaving blank fields to avoid miscalculations and application rejection.
   
• Always round to the nearest dollar, commas and decimals will cause problems.
   
• Double check social security and driver’s license numbers, incorrect numbers can lead to your FAFSA being rejected.
   
• Federal income tax paid amount can only be obtained from your Tax Forms NOT your W-2’s.
   
• The adjusted gross income (AGI), is NOT the same as the total income, make sure you are using the correct lines.
   
• Only choose yes on marital status if you are actually married at the time of filling out the FAFSA.
   
• Do not leave the question about drug related offenses blank. If you are unsure, ask before submitting your FAFSA.
   
• Make sure you put the school code on your FAFSA; otherwise the information will not get to the school.
   
• Make sure you sign your FAFSA. If filing electronically make sure you and/or a parent obtain a FAFSA ID.
   
• Make sure you enter the MAILING ADDRESS where you will receive mail all year. Putting the correct address on the FAFSA does NOT automatically change the address at your school.
   
• Do not send in your taxes unless requested. A copy of your tax form is not needed with your application..