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For student athletes, staying on top of their academics and extracurricular activities, along with everything else that college entails, can be a challenge. Their chosen sport is basically a full-time job ― and a physically-demanding one at that.

To make it to your college graduation, you’ve got to keep your grades up and find the time to study, which can be especially challenging during your freshman year.

Read on to learn some simple and effective strategies that can help you balance your responsibilities in the classroom and on the court, field, or wherever you play.

Planning Your Class Schedule Accordingly

Often, coaches will outline clear timeframes for practice and training that student athletes need to plan their class schedules around. Additionally, games and competitions are usually scheduled far enough in advance for student athletes to know which days of the week they’ll be traveling most often.

Still, there may be some discretion in choosing class times. Keeping in mind when you prefer to eat, sleep, and study is key to creating a schedule that will help you perform as a student and athlete.

Although many student athletes maintain an active training schedule throughout the year, the official NCAA season (or the majority of it) for many sports occurs during either the fall or spring semester. You may want to take advantage of a more flexible off-season schedule by taking more academically demanding classes and those that would otherwise conflict with their practice schedule.

Keeping Your Eye on the Prize

Student athletes invest countless hours in their chosen sport. Yet, the vast majority will graduate and pursue a career outside athletics. On average, barely 2% of college student athletes move up to professional leagues after NCAA competition.

Academics are an integral part of being a successful student athlete. Choosing a degree program you’re passionate about and that supports your career goals can help keep you motivated and on track to graduate.

Each team and college may maintain its own standards for GPA requirements to compete, but the NCAA sets minimum requirements too. Division I and Division II athletes are required to meet initial eligibility criteria set by the NCAA while Division III student-athletes are held to the standards set by the schools they attend.

Just skating by in terms of GPA may allow you to compete, but it could hurt your candidacy for internships and jobs after graduation.

Recommended: 12 Ways a College Athlete Can Make Money

Building Relationships With Your Professors and Classmates

This advice could apply to any college student, but student athletes in particular stand to benefit from getting to know their professors and classmates early on in the semester.

To varying degrees, college sports teams travel off-campus for games and competitions, which means student athletes might miss some in-person class time. Meeting with professors at the beginning of the semester can show a commitment to your studies and help hash out any scheduling conflicts for classes and exams.

Also, making friends with classmates can be beneficial for exchanging class notes to cover each other’s absences, as well as forming study groups.

Finding an Accountability Buddy

Student athletes know the importance of teamwork. In addition to pushing each other to greatness at practice and the gym, teammates can be a support system to help achieve your academic goals too. Forging a partnership or study group to hold each other accountable to these goals, on and off the court or field, is one such strategy.

For starters, who can better relate to your experience and challenges balancing athletics and academics than a teammate? Together, you and your accountability buddy can capitalize on downtime on the road to away games to tackle assignments or plan a study night before a big game to resist the urge to party.

It’s okay if your goals are different. The important thing is that you find an accountability buddy you feel comfortable with and who will help keep you on track.

Recommended: 5 Ways to Start Preparing For College

Prioritizing Health and Wellness

Both academics and sports can be demanding, and taking them on simultaneously requires serious stamina. Prioritizing physical and mental health by eating well, getting enough sleep, and finding ways to destress can help prevent burnout and stay sane. It’s okay to slip up every now and then, but creating a plan that you can stick to could make a difference in succeeding as a student athlete.

Recommended: What Is College Like?

It’s Okay to Ask for Help

Many college students deal with stress between exams and assignments. For college student athletes, the pressure to succeed athletically and academically can be a lot to handle.

There is no shame in asking for help, and the sooner the better. College tutors can assist with everything from proofreading essays to prepping for a chemistry test. Approaching professors early with any concerns could also help with extra credit opportunities or a chance to redo an assignment.

Recommended: The Ultimate Guide to Studying in College

What About Redshirting?

For Division I athletes, the NCAA regulation grants college student athletes a span of five years to compete in four years of athletic competition. For Division II and Division III students there is a 10-semester, or 15-quarter clock. This means that student athletes may take a year off from competing ― a practice known as redshirting ― as long as they continue taking coursework and meet other eligibility requirements.

Traditionally, redshirting is applied to allow students athletes more time to develop or recover from a significant injury. However, student athletes may be able to use redshirting to their advantage in terms of coursework.

Redshirting may allow students to take a more manageable course load by stretching their degree over ten semesters instead of eight. Alternatively, it can provide extra time to complete both a bachelor’s and graduate degree in one go.

Keep in mind that redshirting guidelines vary by division. For instance, Division I and II athletes are permitted to practice with their team during their redshirt season, whereas Division III athletes may not.

Paying for College

College is a big investment, but fortunately there are options for funding education. Financial aid, grants, work-study programs, and scholarships may be enough to pay for all or a portion of tuition and room and board.

Athletic Scholarships

There have usually been some full-ride and partial athletic scholarships available to Division I and II student athletes. Athletics classified as headcount sports offered full ride scholarships to a certain number of athletes per team, whereas equivalency sports traditionally extend partial scholarships.

However, as of the 2025-26 academic year, that has changed. The NCAA is transitioning away from the head count scholarship model, meaning all sports will effectively become equivalency sports. The NCAA explains that “this change allows coaches to offer a mix of full and partial scholarships, rather than being limited to full scholarships in certain sports.” Some sports may have historically been considered head count sports, like men’s and women’s basketball, women’s volleyball, women’s tennis, and women’s gymnastics, the new rules have eliminated these distinctions.

Recommended: Finding Free Money for College

Student Loans

In the event that scholarships, grants, and financial aid are not enough to cover tuition and living expenses, student athletes can take out student loans to help them cover the difference.

Federal student loans may be subsidized, which means interest won’t start to accrue until six months after you graduate, or they may be unsubsidized, which means interest begins accruing right away. Either way, you don’t have to start making payments until six months after graduation. Federal loans come with a fixed interest rate set by the government and don’t require a credit check. Filling out the FAFSA can be a critical first step to obtaining these loans.

If those do not cover your costs, you may also consider private student loans.

Private student loans are available through private lenders, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates and terms vary, depending on the lender. These loans do require a credit check and, generally, borrowers (or cosigners) who have strong credit qualify for the lowest rates.

Keep in mind, though, that private loans may not offer the borrower protections — like income-based repayment plans and deferment — that automatically come with federal student loans.

The Takeaway

Student athletes have a lot to juggle in college, between academics and athletics. It can be wise for them to plan their schedules to accommodate both pursuits, find an accountability partner, and ask for help if they are feeling overwhelmed. It’s also important to line up financing for college, since not all student athletes will get sports-related scholarships. That’s where federal and/or private student loans can help.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

How to balance academics and athletics?

To balance academics and athletics as a student who plays a sport can be a challenge. Staying organized, having an accountability buddy, connecting with professors and coaches, and knowing when to ask for help are all important to staying on top of your dual pursuits.

How do college sports affect athletics?

There is some evidence that college sports can help a student perform better academically in terms of problem solving, creativity, and memory.

Why can student athletes struggle with grades?

Student athletes may struggle with grades since their sport takes up significant time that might otherwise be spent studying for their academic classes. Training sessions and practices, as well as games, can all eat up a student’s available time, causing them to struggle with grades.

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SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOISL-Q325-107

Graduating high school and attending college can be major achievements for students and their families. Getting to this stage requires hard work, financial planning, and communication between parents and their children.

If you’re hoping that your child will go to college after high school, talking about college well before their senior year can better prepare them for success.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to getting ready for college, and the same goes for college conversation starters. Here are some tips and strategies to consider as you prepare to have the college talk with your child.

When is it too Early to Talk about College?

Putting off the college talk is generally a greater concern than starting too early. While kids are young, you can begin planting seeds in everyday conversation about college and careers. Consider taking a gradual approach. This can give your child time and space to come forward with their own thoughts to create a college conversation rather than a college lecture.

When is it too Late to Talk about College?

There isn’t a definitive best time to start talking about college, but waiting too long could put your child at a disadvantage.

Many college admissions offices evaluate every year of high school to calculate a student’s grade point average (GPA) and academic performance. While junior year can be given greater weight, a bad grade in algebra as a freshman doesn’t disappear either. For this reason, the transition from middle school to high school can be an opportune time to begin talking about college.

While the academic side is important to emphasize, an overly direct approach could potentially stifle the college talk. Starting early can help you build a better foundation to discuss the more difficult and stressful parts of preparing for college.

Do Your Own Homework on the College Process

As a parent or guardian, doing some initial research can inform you on the nuts and bolts of the college process and show your child that you are supportive of their education. Getting familiar with the different types of schools (say, a college versus a university, and a liberal arts college versus a technical institute) can be a good move, as can understanding the application process and deadlines. Of course, thinking about financing your child’s education is important as well.

It’s no surprise that college is expensive, but there are options to make college more affordable. First off, you may want to gauge how much financial aid your family could qualify for with the government’s Federal Student Aid Estimator . This tool provides a free estimate of federal aid eligibility, including work-study, grants, and federal student loans.

Another concern is prepping for standardized tests. There has been a growing call for waiving standardized tests for college admission, but many schools still require SAT or ACT scores for admission. Not every family is in the position to pay for tutors and prep classes, but it is worth noting that students can take these tests multiple times to improve their scores.

Through a process called “superscoring,” some colleges accept a student’s best section-level scores for math and evidence-based reading, even if they are from different test dates.

Some other useful tidbits to be aware of as you start the college conversation include:

•  College application fees: The cost varies by institution. The average application fee runs around $40-$90, though some schools charge as much as $100 to apply. However, applicants could qualify for a waiver if they meet certain criteria for financial need.
•  In-state vs. out-of-state tuition cost: Each state has its own public university system that is partially funded by taxpayer money. Therefore, the base tuition cost for in-state residents is less than out-of-state students, though this does not account for potential scholarships and financial aid. Students attending out-of-state public universities typically pay more for tuition than in-state residents, though the cost may still be less than attending a private college.
•  Local scholarship opportunities: Community organizations, nonprofits, and businesses may offer scholarships specifically to graduates of your child’s high school or within your community. Criteria varies, but common elements might include academic merit, leadership, and financial need.

Now, some helpful college conversation starters.

Asking About Their Goals, Dreams, and Worries

Adolescence is a journey in self-discovery, but also insecurity and social pressure. In addition to your child’s future aspirations, acknowledge that they may have doubts and worries about attending college or moving away from home. Simply listening and showing your support is a good start to moving forward with the college talk.

On a lighter note, your child doesn’t need to have it all figured out by the time they decide to enroll in college. Some students do not declare a major until a few semesters into college. This means they can take a variety of classes before making a final decision for their degree.

Still, there are hundreds of college majors to consider, and not all colleges have the same offerings, so narrowing it down a little beforehand can help your child find a college that fits their needs and graduate on time.

Attending a local college with friends may be really important to your child, or they may be set on a specialized subject only offered at a handful of colleges. Either way, there is still plenty to discuss for their future plans.

Recommended: College vs University: What’s the Difference?

Attending College and Career Events Together

Many high schools host career and college fairs throughout the academic year. Often, these events are marketed towards juniors and seniors who are approaching application deadlines and graduation. If your student is a freshman or sophomore in high school, these fairs can provide a convenient opportunity to start browsing their options without the pressure of applying yet.

Having the confidence to speak with college admissions recruiters at these events is not only great practice, but can gain application fee waivers and insight into scholarships and other opportunities.

Similarly, colleges organize open house events and tours for prospective students and their families throughout the year. Starting with an unofficial tour of a nearby college campus can be a low-stakes introduction.

Incorporating college visits and tours into a family vacation is another way to test the waters of living and studying away from home.

Recommended: College Planning Guide for Parents of High School Students

Sharing Your Own Experiences

Sharing personal experiences from college can be a natural way to broach the subject, as well as connect with your child on a more peer-to-peer level.

Your child may be surprised to learn which friends you made in college that they’ve known since birth. There are a lot of practical and logistical topics to cover during the college conversation, so this is a chance to bond over more personal stories.

If you didn’t have the opportunity to attend college, that’s okay too. Letting your child know that college is a possibility for them is what matters.

Asking friends who attended college or whose children are in college for advice could offer some insight.

Also, inviting a trusted family member or friend to join the college talk with you and your child is another way to continue the conversation in a caring environment. If your child will be a first-generation college student, keep in mind that they may be eligible for specific types of programs and scholarships.

Letting Them Know Your Financial Plan

Your child may be more intuitive than you think. If you haven’t brought up the matter of paying for college yet, they may assume their education options are more limited than the reality.

Talking about money with your children may feel awkward, but college isn’t cheap, and paying for it is a critical piece of the equation for selecting a school that is right for them.

You don’t have to get too deep in the weeds, but discussing payment options can help put your child at ease. Fortunately, there are several ways to pay for college, such as scholarships, grants, and student loans.

Grants and scholarships generally do not require repayment and are used for education and associated expenses. Both can be awarded through financial aid packages or nonprofit and community organizations.

Additionally, scholarships can be awarded by colleges directly or through a competitive application process. Learning about these opportunities early on could better prepare your child for receiving scholarships and grants.

When approaching student loans, an important piece to convey to your child is the impact of interest. With an unsubsidized federal student loan, interest starts to accrue when the loan is disbursed, and continues accruing until the loan is paid back.

With subsidized federal student loans, the interest is covered by the government while the student is in school at least half time and through a six-month grace period after the student leaves school. With either type of federal loan, you don’t need to begin repayment until six months after graduation.

Generally, interest will also start accruing immediately with private student loans. However, the terms on private student loans vary by lender, so confirm with the loan servicer to be sure. Some private lenders also allow students to defer making any payments until six months after graduation.

Paying off loans ahead of schedule could result in a lower total repayment amount, but consult with your loan provider to be sure. For more information, take a look at this primer on student loans.

This can also be the time to have a candid conversation about getting a summer job and pitching in to save for college.


💡 Quick Tip: Federal student loans carry an origination or processing fee (1.057% for Direct Subsididized and Unsubsidized loans first disbursed from Oct. 1, 2020, through Oct. 1, 2024). The fee is subtracted from your loan amount, which is why the amount disbursed is less than the amount you borrowed. That said, some private student loan lenders don’t charge an origination fee.

Paying for College

Federal student loans, scholarships, grants, and work-study programs may be sufficient to fund all or at least a portion of your child’s education.

However, some students take out private student loans to pay for their education and associated living expenses, when federal aid and savings aren’t enough to cover the costs.

Alternatively, college parents can borrow loans to support their child’s education expenses. The federal government’s PLUS loans program for parents is one option to consider. Private lenders also offer parent student loans with potentially lower interest rates.

The Takeaway

Starting the conversation about college with your child can involve hearing about their hopes and concerns, attending college and career events together, and sharing your own experiences. Discussing how to finance their education can be an important aspect of this and can involve reviewing such options as scholarships, grants, and federal and private student loans.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

How do you talk to your child about college?

Talking to your child about college can involve discussing their hopes and concerns, talking about college majors and financing options, attending events on campus or virtually together, and sharing your own experiences.

How often should you visit your child in college?

How often to visit a child in college depends on such factors as the distance between the parents’ house and the campus, how often the child wants visitors, and the expense of visiting. For freshmen, once or twice a semester can be a good starting point, with family weekends providing a good time to visit campus.

When is a good time to talk to a child about college?

It’s often wise to talk sooner rather than later about college so you can begin to open the lines of communication. Also, since each year of high school will likely matter on your child’s application to college, it can be smart to have the conversation started before those critical four years begin.

The Ivy League is made up of eight elite private colleges, all of which are based in the Northeast. Being accepted to an Ivy League college is something some students work toward all their lives — but there’s more to gaining admission to these schools than good grades and a long list of extracurriculars.

With admission rates now hovering in the 4%-5% range, there’s a heightened sense of competition among top students in high schools across the country and around the world.

Read on to learn more about Ivy League colleges, including which schools are considered “Ivies,” the benefits of going to an Ivy League college, how much they cost, and ways to make your application stand out.

What Are the Different Ivy League Schools?

Named for their ivy-covered campuses, the eight private colleges that make up the Ivy League have many things in common. However, each school has its own unique reputation and characteristics that attract different kinds of students. Here’s a closer look at these top-ranked schools.

Brown University

Located in Providence, Rhode Island, Brown is known for its humanities programs as well as its Warren Alpert Medical School. Its open curriculum allows for a relatively free-form educational model where students are encouraged to take classes they like without having to accumulate certain requirements. Brown also gives students the option of taking as many classes as they want on the basis of pass-fail.

Columbia University

Located in New York City, Columbia is one of the most diverse Ivy League schools with 59% of undergraduates identifying as minorities. It also has one of the highest percentages of international students at any Ivy League, with up to 21% of its student body coming from foreign countries. This cosmopolitan college is host to renowned business, journalism, and law schools, and requires students to adhere to its core curriculum, which focuses largely on liberal arts.

Cornell University

Located in Ithaca, New York, Cornell is one of the largest Ivy League universities, occupying a sprawling campus in this scenic upstate town. Known for its agriculture and engineering schools, Cornell also has strong Greek life and a wide range of athletic programs.

Dartmouth College

Located in Hanover, New Hampshire, Dartmouth is the most rural of the Ivies, drawing a student body interested in the outdoors and Greek life — around 60% of students participate in sororities or fraternities. Its somewhat smaller student body allows for more one-on-one attention in classes and a strong sense of community on campus.

Harvard University

Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Harvard encourages students to take a wide range of courses through their general education requirements, which allows students to broaden their interests and take advantage of intellectual curiosities. The school has 12 residential houses that seek to foster a sense of community in an otherwise imposing setting.

The University of Pennsylvania

Located in Philadelphia, Penn is known for its four distinct undergraduate colleges, including the Wharton School of Business and the College of Arts and Science. Students have the option of taking part in Greek life, and are also encouraged to explore opportunities in the greater Philadelphia area, from internships to the wide array of cultural events available.

Princeton University

Located in Princeton, New Jersey, Princeton University offers either a liberal arts or engineering and applied science degree for undergraduate students, with both programs including general education requirements. Princeton is known for its international affairs and engineering programs, as well as their storied eating clubs, which serve as coed dining halls and social centers for students, and are comparable to nonresidential fraternities or sororities.

Yale University

Located in New Haven, Connecticut, Yale University is known for its creative writing and arts programs, as well as a residential college program and an array of secret societies. It’s also home to a renowned graduate drama program and law school.

Recommended: Ultimate College Application Checklist

Benefits of Attending an Ivy League School

For those who get that coveted acceptance letter, the benefits can be worth the years of hard work it took to get in. From growing your network to gaining access to world-renowned resources and professors at the top of their field, attending an Ivy League school can set students on an accelerated path to intellectual and professional success.

Having an Ivy League school on your resume may open countless doors when it comes to applying for jobs, fellowships, or graduate programs and may provide a leg up when it comes to advancing your career.

The amount of funding available at Ivy League schools can also be a major draw. All Ivy League schools have need-blind admissions policies, meaning that admissions officers will not look at a student’s financial need when considering their application. They also have a promise to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need based on household income.

Princeton recently announced it was waiving tuition for low-income students, a policy Harvard has in place, too, which takes things even further. Ivy League schools also have incredible funding opportunities for research and travel for students, allowing them to broaden their interests and perspectives.

Recommended: Paying for College With No Money in Your Savings

The Cost of an Ivy League School and Options for Paying for Tuition

All of the Ivy League schools are private universities, which usually implies a hefty price for tuition. The average undergraduate tuition for an Ivy League school for the 2024-25 school year was $64,806, plus room and board. But due to the universities’ impressive, multi-billion-dollar endowments, these schools are able to offer generous financial aid packages to prospective students.

While Ivy League schools do not offer merit-based or athletic scholarships, there are generally a wide variety of need-based scholarships awarded to students depending on their household income.

A student’s household income is equal to the combined gross income of all people occupying the household unit who are 15 years of age or older. Among Brown’s class of 2027, for example, students with household incomes below $60,000 received an average of $87,781 in annual financial assistance — nearly full rides, including room and board. For families making between $60,000 and $100,000, students received an average of $75,840 in annual need-based aid.

In addition to aid offered by Ivy League schools directly, students or their parents may choose private student loans to help ease the burden of paying college tuition and expenses.

Students will generally want to exhaust all federal student aid options (which include grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans) before considering private student loans. But if there is still a gap between federal student aid and the remaining cost of attendance, a private loan may be an option for some students.


💡 Quick Tip: It’s a good idea to understand the pros and cons of private student loans and federal student loans before committing to them.

GPA Requirements for Ivy League Schools

An impressive grade point average (GPA) is only one aspect of a student’s college application. However, to even be considered for admission to an Ivy League school, students may want to see if their own GPA falls within the average for admitted students. Among the Ivies that release statistics on accepted students’ GPAs, the average weighted GPA is about 4.0 to 4.25, meaning mostly As.

How to Make an Application More Competitive

In addition to a high GPA and impressive SAT and/or ACT scores, prospective students often need to prove themselves in other ways to gain admission to an Ivy League school.

Excelling in advanced courses, like honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes throughout high school may improve students’ chances of admissions, especially if students show a particular area of interest, like science or humanities.

While in the past, college admissions counselors would advise students to be “well-rounded” candidates, it’s now advisable to develop and demonstrate a passion for a particular subject area, which helps Ivies to build a more well-rounded student body.

Students can show their interests beyond academics by taking part in extracurricular activities. By engaging in activities early in high school and growing that interest over time, students show their commitment and enthusiasm for a particular area.

Strong interviews and letters of recommendation can also improve a student’s application, along with a strong personal essay. Ivy League admissions teams look for essays that highlight a student’s best qualities, perhaps expressed through a personal anecdote or description of a unique passion that displays a candidate’s distinctive character.

Hitting the “Submit” Button

Following the tips above may help improve a student’s Ivy League application, helping to gain admission to one or more of the most prestigious universities in the world. Of course, there are many schools that have the same academic rigor of an Ivy League, and it’s generally advisable to sprinkle in one or two “safety” schools for good measure.

But once a student has decided they want to apply to an Ivy League school, determined which is the right one for them, applied for financial aid, and completed their applications, it’s time to hit submit!

The Takeaway

If you’re hoping to attend an Ivy League college, you’ll want to consider each school’s admission rate, along with its particular academic program and financial aid statistics, to determine which is the right school to apply to.

However, it can be helpful to apply to a range of schools, both in terms of admission standards and tuition costs. This will give you options in case a school’s financial aid package isn’t as generous as you hoped.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

Which is the easiest Ivy League to get into?

While the Ivy League schools aren’t considered easy to get into, Cornell typically has the highest acceptance rate.

Why isn’t Stanford an Ivy?

Stanford is not considered an Ivy League school mainly because the Ivy League refers to a specific athletic conference composed of eight private universities in the Northeast, and Stanford is located on the West Coast.

What’s the #1 hardest school to get into?

The #1 hardest school to be admitted to is usually considered to be Harvard University. Harvard typically has an extremely low acceptance rate of 3%-5%.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Oops! As with any lengthy application, it’s easy to make mistakes or omissions on the Free Application for Financial Student Aid (FAFSA®). In some cases, an applicant’s personal information changes and has to be updated on the form. Some corrections are more important than others — like a typo in your Social Security number — and need to be handled with special care.

Luckily, most errors can be corrected fairly easily. We’ll discuss when you need to update your information, how to make FAFSA corrections, and some special cases that require guidance from your school of choice’s financial aid office.

How to Make Simple Updates to FAFSA

The FAFSA asks for your personal information as it stands on the day you sign your form. It’s understood that details may change, and making updates is not a problem. (Of course, it’s best to avoid FAFSA mistakes altogether.)

Some FAFSA changes are easier to make than others. For example, it’s easy to add or drop colleges on your schools list or change your answer to the “Unsubsidized Loan Only” question online. You can also make simple changes by hand if you receive a FAFSA Submission Summary in the mail.

Make Changes Online

You can make simple changes to your FAFSA on the Federal Student Aid website. Here are the steps:

•   Log into your StudentAid.gov account and navigate to your main dashboard.

•   Go to the “My Activity” section of your dashboard and select your processed FAFSA form.

•   At the top-right corner of your FAFSA form, select “Actions,” then select “Make Corrections.”

•   Make the necessary corrections.

•   Submit the form.

Mail in a Corrected SAR

The FAFSA Submission Summary is a document summarizing the info on your FAFSA. When you first submitted your FAFSA, you should have received either an email with a link to your FAFSA Submission Summary or a paper copy by mail. You can also find it by logging in to your StudentAid.gov account dashboard, selecting your processed FAFSA submission from the “My Activity” section, then choosing “View FAFSA Submission Summary.”

If you received a paper FAFSA Submission Summary by mail, you can make your changes on that form, sign it, and send it to the address listed on the form.

💡 Quick Tip: You can fund your education with a competitive-rate, no-fees-required private student loan that covers all school-certified costs.

Deadlines for FAFSA Updates

The federal deadline for submitting the FAFSA is June 30, but corrections are accepted for a couple of months after that date. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the last day for corrections and updates is Sept. 12. 2026.

Keep in mind that state and college deadlines vary, and that some financial aid is given out on a first come, first served basis. If you need to make substantial changes, call your financial aid office to find out about any other deadlines you should be aware of.

For more important dates, check out our guide to FAFSA deadlines.

Important Updates

Some corrections and updates need to be handled with special urgency and care. This includes your contact information and anything that affects your dependency status — including if you become pregnant.

To make updates, follow the steps above and watch out for your updated FAFSA Submission Survey to confirm the changes have been made.

Other important updates require a call to your school of choice’s financial aid office. The office will tell you whether your FAFSA needs to be updated and the best way to do it. In some cases, the office can make changes electronically, so the student doesn’t have to do anything.

Call the financial aid office first for the following:

•   Change in marital status.

•   Significant changes to income (yours or your parents’) for the current year.

•   Change in the number of family members in the household (yours or your parents’).

•   Change in the number of people who are in college in the household (yours or your parents’).

•   You or your parents filed an amended 1040-X tax return.

•   Other changes in circumstance that cannot be reported on the FAFSA.

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Updating Your Social Security Number

If you entered your Social Security Number (SSN) wrong on your FAFSA, you’ll need to do the following:

•   Log in to your StudentAid.gov account and update your SSN in your Account Settings.

•   Once the Social Security Administration verifies your account status, you can update the information on your FAFSA form by selecting “Make a Correction.”

•   Update your SSN on your FAFSA, then navigate through the rest of the form.

•   Submit the form.


💡 Quick Tip: Even if you don’t think you qualify for financial aid, you should fill out the FAFSA form. Many schools require it for merit-based scholarships, too.

If You Miss the Deadline for Updates

If you made an error on your FAFSA that results in you receiving less financial aid than you should have, there’s not much you can do. Still, it’s a good idea to call your school’s financial aid office and explain your situation. They may be able to help you find any remaining financial aid — especially state grants and scholarships — to cover your cost of attendance until the following year.

Another option is private student loans. Educational loans disbursed by a private lender can help students who didn’t qualify for enough federal aid. It’s important to note that private student loans do not come with the same protections that are baked into federal aid, such as deferment and income-based repayment. Here’s a good summary of the differences between private student loans vs. federal student loans.

Still, for students who do not qualify for federal loans or who need additional funds to cover the cost of college, private student loans can help bridge the gap.

The Takeaway

Making corrections and updates to your FAFSA is typically straightforward. Simple changes can be made on the FAFSA website even after the deadline for submitting the application. It’s a good idea to follow up by mailing a corrected Student Aid Report (SAR) to the address listed on the back. A new SAR will confirm that your changes were made. For some important updates, it’s recommended that you call your school of choice’s financial aid office. They include changes in marital or dependency status, and significant financial changes.

Since the FAFSA unlocks grants, work-study programs, and federal student loans, it’s important to make corrections as quickly as possible. This can help avoid any delays in receiving financial aid.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

What is the #1 most common FAFSA mistake?

One of the most common FAFSA mistakes is leaving blank fields, or skipping questions. Applicants often do this because they think a question doesn’t apply to them. But too many blanks may lead to miscalculations or having your application rejected. Be sure to enter a “0” or “not applicable” instead of leaving a blank.

What happens if you put incorrect info on FAFSA?

If you provide incorrect information on your FAFSA, it can affect your financial aid eligibility, delay processing, or require verification by your school. Minor mistakes can usually be fixed by submitting a correction online. Serious errors, especially intentional misreporting, may result in loss of aid or legal consequences. Schools may also request documentation to verify details.

Can FAFSA be modified?

Yes, you can modify your FAFSA after submission to fix errors, update details, or add schools. Simply log in your StudentAid.gov account, navigate to the “My Activity” section of your dashboard, and select your processed FAFSA form. You can then select “Actions,” followed by “Make Corrections.” For significant changes, however, you may need to contact your school’s financial aid office.

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

SOISL-Q325-143

Spending a couple of hours filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, more commonly known as the FAFSA®, may not seem like your idea of fun. However, skipping the FAFSA could mean losing out on need-based grants. If you qualify, grants can be an incredibly helpful addition to your financial aid award for one main reason: You generally don’t have to repay them.

Let’s jump into some specific details about grants, including the connection between the FAFSA and grants, types of grants, and more information about this worthwhile addition to your financial aid award.

Does FAFSA Give Grants?

The FAFSA itself doesn’t give grants because the FAFSA is an application. When you file the FAFSA, the colleges and universities you have on your list will use this information to determine the specific amount and types of grants (and other financial aid) you are eligible for. Grants may come from:

•   The federal government

•   State governments

•   College or career schools

•   Private or nonprofit organizations


💡 Quick Tip: You could make no payments on some private student loans for six months after graduation.

Does FAFSA Give Grants for Graduate School?

Certain grants, such as Pell Grants, go to undergraduate students only. However, graduate students can tap into a few federal programs, though these are usually need-based. Here are two examples:

•   TEACH Grants: Graduate students can get a TEACH Grant as long as they agree to teach in a high-need field in a school for low-income students. They must also agree to fulfill a few other requirements, as well.

•   Fulbright Grants: Qualified graduate students can tap into the U.S. Fulbright Program to pursue graduate study, conduct research, or teach English abroad. This program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and can help students expand upon their international studies.

Some corporations and other organizations also offer grants for graduate students, though it’s important to note that the FAFSA isn’t necessarily needed to qualify. Take a close look at the qualifications for corporate grants and other organizations as you find them.

Is Pell Grant the Same as FAFSA?

No, the Pell Grant is not the same as the FAFSA, which is simply an application. The FAFSA is not the actual entity that gives you financial aid. Federal grants, like the Pell Grant, come from the federal government through the U.S. Department of Education.

Types of FAFSA Grants

Let’s walk through a few types of grants and their requirements that you may become eligible for when you file the FAFSA.

Pell Grants

The Pell Grant program is the largest federal grant program available to undergraduate students. In order to qualify for the Pell Grant, you generally must demonstrate financial need.

How much can you receive from the Pell Grant? For the 2025–26 award year, the maximum Federal Pell Grant is $7,395. Check from year to year because the award amount might change slightly.

The exact amount you’ll get depends on your Student Aid Index (SAI), formerly known as Expected Family Contribution (EFC), the cost of attendance (determined by your school for your specific program), your status as a full-time or part-time student, and your plans to attend school for a full academic year or less.

If you have a parent or guardian who lost their life either while on duty in the military after September 11, 2001, or while performing duties as a public safety officer, you may be able to receive a maximum Pell Grant award regardless of financial need. To qualify, you’ll need to check “yes” next to the appropriate question on the FAFSA form. You’ll then be asked to follow up with documentation.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG)

The need-based Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) gives each participating school a certain amount of FSEOG funds, and these schools give FSEOG Grants to students who have the most financial need.

You can receive between $100 and $4,000 a year, depending on:

•   Financial need

•   Amount of other aid you receive

•   Availability of funds at the institution you attend

Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grants

The Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant Program gives you funds through a TEACH Grant-eligible program at a school that participates in the program. You must agree to:

•   Teach in a high-need field full time for at least four years.

•   Complete the required four years of teaching within eight years after you graduate.

•   Teach at a low-income elementary school, secondary school, or educational service agency.

You must also undergo TEACH Grant counseling and complete the TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve or Repay to qualify.

Recommended: How to Complete the FAFSA Step by Step

Do You Have to Pay Back FAFSA Grants?

It’s a common question — and a good one! Like scholarships, you generally do not need to repay FAFSA grants. However, there are some situations, such as withdrawing from school early or switching from full-time to part-time status, where repayment might be required.

FAFSA Grant Repayment

While grants generally do not require repayment, there are a few circumstances in which a grant may need to be repaid. Here are some reasons why you might have to repay some or all of a FAFSA grant:

•   You left or withdrew early from the program for which you received grants.

•   Your enrollment status changed, which impacts your eligibility for the grant.

•   You received outside scholarships or grants that reduced your need for grants.

•   You failed to complete the service obligation that comes with the TEACH grant (in this case the grant is converted into a loan).

It’s a good idea to look carefully at the requirements for each grant. You can ask a financial aid professional at your college or university for specific information about grant eligibility, award amounts, and other requirements.

Additional Funding Options for College

When you receive a financial aid award from a college, it may include financial aid such as FAFSA grants and scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans. Some students may also consider borrowing private student loans. Let’s walk through the definition of each.

Scholarships

A scholarship is a type of financial aid that you don’t have to repay. Scholarships can be need-based or merit-based (based on talents or interests, independent of your financial need).

Federal Work-Study

Undergraduate, graduate, and professional students with financial need may be eligible for work-study programs. You can tap into part-time jobs, usually on campus, during your enrollment in school. Full- or part-time students can qualify for work-study jobs.

You cannot go over your work-study award limit. In other words, let’s say you receive $1,500 in work-study. You can work as many hours as you can up to that limit. Your school will pay you directly unless you request that they use the money to pay for education expenses (such as tuition, fees, food, or housing).

Your school must participate in the federal work-study program, so check with your school’s financial aid office for more information.

Federal Student Loans

Financial aid awards often contain federal student loans, which come from the federal government, through the U.S. Department of Education.

Take a look at three main types of federal student loans:

•   Direct Subsidized Loans: Direct Subsidized Loans are federal loans that have a low interest rate (currently 6.39% for undergraduate students and 7.94% for graduate or professional students). The U.S. Department of Education pays the interest on Direct Subsidized Loans while you are in college. The amount of loan money you can qualify for depends on your year in school and whether you are a dependent or independent student. For example, dependent undergraduates can qualify for $5,500 to $7,500 per year in Direct Loans. However, you cannot receive more than $3,500 to $5,500 of this amount in subsidized loans.

•   Direct Unsubsidized Loans: The major difference between Direct Subsidized Loans and Direct Unsubsidized Loans is that the U.S. Department of Education does not pay the interest on Direct Unsubsidized Loans while you are in college. However, the interest rate is the same as with Direct Subsidized Loans (currently 6.39% for undergraduate students and 7.94% for graduate or professional students).

•   Direct PLUS Loans for parents and graduate/professional students: Parents can take out Direct PLUS Loans through the U.S. Department of Education. They must undergo a credit check and are responsible for paying all interest on the loan (it’s not subsidized), plus a fee. Currently, parents can borrow up to the full cost of attendance, minus any financial aid. However, borrowing limits will be changing on July 1, 2026. Under the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” parents will be limited to borrowing no more than $20,000 per child each year, with a lifetime maximum of $65,000 per student.

  Currently, graduate and professional students can borrow funds (up to the full cost of attendance) through the federal grad PLUS loan program. That is also changing on July 1, 2026. Under the new bill, the grad PLUS program will no longer be offered. Graduate students will still be able to access federal loans but will generally be limited to $20,500 per year and $100,000 in total federal loans.

Federal student loans offer benefits such as fixed interest rates and income-driven repayment.


💡 Quick Tip: Parents and sponsors with strong credit and income may find much lower rates on private parent student loans than federal parent PLUS loans, plus no fees required. Federal PLUS loans also come with an origination fee.

Private Student Loans

Private student loans are loans offered by banks, credit unions, and other private lenders to help students cover the cost of their education. You apply for this type of loan directly with your choice of private lender. Eligibility is primarily based on creditworthiness, which includes factors like credit score, income, and debt-to-income ratio. Many students need a cosigner with good credit history to qualify, as they may not have an established credit history themselves.

You can typically borrow up to the full cost of attendance, including living expenses, which may give you more borrowing power than federal loans. While federal loan interest rates are fixed and set by Congress, private loan rates can be fixed or variable and are determined by your (or your cosigner’s) credit profile.

Federal loans generally offer more flexible repayment options, such as income-driven repayment plans, and may be eligible for forgiveness programs. Private loan repayment options and protections vary by lender and are usually less flexible.

The Takeaway

Completing the FAFSA is one of the best steps you can take to unlock free money for college in the form of grants. While the FAFSA itself doesn’t hand out funds, it’s the key that determines your eligibility for federal, state, and school-based grants. Unlike student loans, grants generally do not need to be repaid, which makes them a highly desirable source of college funding.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

FAQ

What grant does FAFSA give you?

FAFSA itself doesn’t provide grants; it helps determine your eligibility for federal grants like the Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG). These grants are awarded based on financial need and typically do not need to be repaid.

What income qualifies for FAFSA grants?

There is no strict income cutoff for FAFSA grants because eligibility depends on multiple factors, including family size and assets. The majority of Pell grants are awarded to students whose families earn less than $60,000, though some families making more may also qualify if they have multiple dependents or high education costs. The FAFSA calculates your Student Aid Index (SAI) to determine if you’re eligible for need-based grants.

How much is the average FAFSA grant?

The amount you receive depends on your financial need, school costs, and enrollment status. The average Pell Grant award is $4,491 a year, though it can range from a few hundred to over $7,000. Other grants may offer different amounts based on specific criteria.

Can you get free money from FAFSA?

Yes, FAFSA can help you access free money in the form of grants and scholarships that don’t need to be repaid. One of the most common is the Federal Pell Grant, but you might also qualify for the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) or state and institutional grants. Completing the FAFSA is the only way to be considered for most need-based aid, and many schools use it to award their own scholarships. FAFSA can also determine eligibility for federal student loans.

About the author

Melissa Brock

Melissa Brock is a higher education and personal finance expert with more than a decade of experience writing online content. She spent 12 years in college admission prior to switching to full-time freelance writing and editing. Read full bio.

Photo credit: iStock/syahrir maulana

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is subject to change. This information is current as of 4/22/2025 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Bank, N.A. and its lending products are not endorsed by or directly affiliated with any college or university unless otherwise disclosed.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

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