![A student holding an alarm clock.](https://www.collegeraptor.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/FAFSA-deadline-300x200.jpg)
Flickr user Marco Verch
Deadlines can be stressful, more so when you are juggling multiple. High school seniors come up against numerous deadlines: papers, scholarships, and college apps. One of the most important is the FAFSA deadline. You miss this one, and you’re missing out on all types of financial aid that can help lower the cost of college.
The FAFSA Deadline
Until October 2016, the FAFSA deadline used to be so firm it was practically set in stone, and it was always the same day: January 1 of whatever year you were intending to apply. This date has changed, however, and students may begin filling out their FAFSA as early as October 1 of the current calendar year. The deadline to complete your application and make sure it has been received is midnight, Central Time, June 30.
The Importance of the FAFSA
The FAFSA is more than just federal loans. You also need it to qualify for grants, scholarships, work study programs, and other institutional aid. Failing to file the FAFSA means you will forfeit all of these federal funding opportunities so make sure you file your FAFSA ASAP, and complete it prior to June 30.
And after you exhaust all of your federal and gift aid opportunities, you may need a private student loan to cover the rest. With College Raptor’s free Student Loan Finder, you can compare loans from various lenders side by side to find the ideal loan for you.
Lender | Rates (APR) | Eligibility | |
---|---|---|---|
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5.99%-16.59%* Variable
3.99%-15.59%* Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CITIZENS |
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5.37% - 15.70% Variable
3.99% - 15.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT SALLIE MAE |
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5.13% - 17.99% Variable
3.69% - 17.99% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT CREDIBLE |
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6.00% - 13.75% Variable
3.99% - 13.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT LENDKEY |
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6.01% - 15.47% Variable
3.69% - 14.71% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ASCENT |
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3.70% - 8.75% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ISL |
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5.62% - 16.85% Variable
3.74% - 16.49% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT EARNEST |
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6.00% - 14.22% Variable
3.69% - 14.22% Fixed
|
Undergraduate and Graduate
|
VISIT ELFI |