Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

To be considered for financial aid, every student needs to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The great news is that the FAFSA has recently been simplified—and we’ve put together an easy, step-by-step guide to help you feel confident every step of the way.

Keep in mind that the 2026–2027 FAFSA covers classes from Fall 2026 through Summer 2027 and uses 2024 income information. Whether you’re a new student, returning, or continuing your journey at Delta, you’ll need to submit the FAFSA each year.

And remember, life can change—so if your dependency status, income, or other information on your FAFSA doesn’t reflect your current situation, our Financial Aid Advisors are here to listen, support you and help you explore your options. Don’t hesitate to reach out!

 

 

Apply for financial aid

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with Delta's Federal School Code (002251) each year to apply for grants, loans, work-study, scholarships and State aid.

Step 1: Create a FSA ID.

If you have never done so before, you will need to create a FSA ID. This is your individual log-in to the Federal Student Aid website. You/your spouse, and if dependent, your parent(s), will each need their own FSA ID. You’ll need your SSN, and your own mobile phone number and/or email address. Do not use the same number/email for multiple FSA IDs. Remember, these are individual accounts.

Step 2: Organize your income information.

The FAFSA uses 2 years prior income information to determine aid eligibility. For the 2025–26 FAFSA, this will be 2023 income. For the 2026–27 FAFSA, this will be 2024 income. Get together your/spouse's and your parent(s)’ (if dependent) federal tax returns, W2s, records of untaxed income received, and information on current assets and investments.

Step 3: Complete and submit your FAFSA.

Delta's Federal School Code is 002251.

If you plan on applying for Fall 2025, Winter 2026 and/or Spring 2026 semester aid, choose the 2025–26 FAFSA. If you plan on applying for Fall 2026, Winter 2027 and/or Spring 2027 semester aid, choose the 2026–27 FAFSA.

Step 4: Review your summary

A FAFSA submission summary will be sent directly to you from the government. When you receive your Summary, look it over carefully to make sure it is correct, since this is the information Delta will receive electronically. The information on this will be used to determine your eligibility for the Federal Pell Grant and for most other types of aid. If corrections are needed, follow the directions on your FAFSA Submission Summary.

If you need assistance completing or making corrections to your FAFSA, you may contact the Financial Aid Office, during office hours and a Financial Aid Advisor will be available to assist you.

Please review your financial aid status and documentation required to complete the application process in your Financial Aid checklist. Follow these steps from the Inside Delta for Current Students page:

Tools > Student Self-Service > Financial Aid.  Submit missing documents need to make a determination to the Financial Aid Office promptly, as it may delay awarding.

Other helpful information

You never have to pay for help with your federal student aid, including your student loans. Make sure you understand which companies and claims are legitimate. For more information about how to avoid scams and what to do if you think you’ve been scammed, watch Play It Safe: Protect Yourself From Student Loan Scams, a Federal Student Aid video.

The Federal Student Aid website provides additional information regarding the financial aid process and describes the various types of financial aid.

Resources

FAFSA tips and common mistakes

Federal student aid estimator