To submit your FAFSA to colleges, you simply add each school’s federal school code to your application before or after filing. The Department of Education then sends your financial information electronically to those schools. This process is free, and you can add up to 20 colleges at a time.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the key to grants, work-study, and federal student loans. But completing it is only half the battle. You must ensure the right colleges receive your data. This guide explains exactly how to submit FAFSA to colleges, whether you are applying for the first time or need to make changes later.
Step-by-Step: Adding Colleges to Your FAFSA
When you fill out the FAFSA online at the official federal student aid website, you will come to the section labeled “Schools to Receive Your Information.” Here is how to handle it correctly.
1. Gather Your College List
Before you start, know which colleges you plan to apply to. You can list up to 20 schools on the online FAFSA. The order matters because some states use the first few schools for state aid deadlines. Put your top-choice school first if possible.
2. Use Federal School Codes
Each college has a unique six-digit federal school code. You can search for these codes on the FAFSA website using the school’s name or location. If you do not know the code, you can leave the field blank and type in the college’s name and address instead.
3. Submit and Confirm
After you list your schools, review your application and hit “Submit.” You will receive a confirmation email. The schools you listed will receive your FAFSA data within 1 to 3 business days after the federal processor receives your form.
What If You Forgot to Add a College?
Do not panic if you already submitted your FAFSA and forgot to include a college. You can add or remove schools after submission.
Log In and Use “Add/Remove Schools”
Go to the FAFSA website and log in with your FSA ID. Select “Make FAFSA Corrections.” Under the “Schools to Receive Your Information” section, add the new school’s federal code. Then resubmit your form. The new school will get your data in a few days.
Deadlines Matter
Each college has its own financial aid deadline. Some are as early as December or January for priority consideration. Check each college’s financial aid page for its deadline. Also, check your state’s deadline. Adding a school after its deadline may mean you miss out on certain aid.
Important Tips for Submitting Your FAFSA to Colleges
- Double-check your federal school codes to avoid sending data to the wrong institution.
- List all colleges you are seriously considering, even if you have not applied yet.
- Submit your FAFSA as early as possible – the application opens on October 1 for the next academic year.
- Use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to import your tax information directly – it reduces errors.
- After submission, check each college’s student portal to confirm they received your FAFSA.
How Colleges Receive Your FAFSA Data
Once you submit your FAFSA, the federal processor calculates your Student Aid Index (SAI). This number determines your financial need. Then your information is sent to the schools you listed via a secure electronic system. Each school uses this data to build your financial aid offer.
Colleges do not receive your FAFSA automatically unless you list them. Even if you applied to a college, they cannot see your FAFSA unless you add their code. So always confirm your list.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Wrong School Code
Entering a wrong code could send your data to a different college. Use the official school code search tool to verify.
Missing Deadlines
Federal deadline is June 30 for the current academic year, but state and college deadlines are much earlier. For example, many priority deadlines are in early February. Always check each school’s deadline.
Not Checking Your Email
After submission, you will get a confirmation email. If you do not receive one, your FAFSA may not have been submitted. Log in to check your status.
Comparison: Adding Schools Before vs. After Submission
| Action | Before Submission | After Submission |
|---|---|---|
| Time required | No extra step – just type codes during application | Must log in and make a correction |
| Processing delay | None – schools get data with initial transmission | 1-3 business days after resubmission |
| Risk of missing deadlines | Lower if you submit early | Higher – you must resubmit before the school’s deadline |
| Number of schools allowed | Up to 20 on the online form | Same – you can add up to 20 total |
What Happens After the Schools Receive Your FAFSA?
Once a college receives your FAFSA, they may request additional documents. This could include verification forms, tax transcripts, or proof of citizenship. Check your email and the college portal regularly. Missing documents can delay your aid offer.
You may also receive a financial aid offer letter from each college. This letter lists the types and amounts of aid you qualify for. Compare offers carefully. You do not have to accept all aid – you can decline loans if you do not need them.
Final Summary
To submit your FAFSA to colleges, list each school’s federal code on your application, submit it, and then verify that each college received your data. If you forgot a school, log in and add it via corrections. Always meet college and state deadlines, and check your email for follow-up requests. Acting early and double-checking your school list ensures your financial aid process starts smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I send my FAFSA to a specific college?
Log in to your FAFSA application, go to “Make FAFSA Corrections,” add the college’s federal school code under “Schools to Receive Your Information,” and resubmit your form.
Can I add colleges to my FAFSA after submitting?
Yes, you can add or remove colleges after submission by logging in with your FSA ID and making a correction. The new school will receive your data within a few days.
How many colleges can I list on my FAFSA?
You can list up to 20 colleges on the online FAFSA form. If you apply using the paper form, you can list up to 10 schools.
What is the deadline to add a college to my FAFSA?
There is no federal deadline to add a college, but each college and state has its own financial aid deadline. Check with each school to avoid missing out on aid.
Do colleges automatically get my FAFSA if I applied to them?
No, colleges only receive your FAFSA if you list their federal school code on your application. You must add each college you want to receive your data.
