Priority Dates

FAFSA, your first step: 

The FAFSA is your application for grants (free money), work study (money you earn), and loans (money you pay back).

Why It Matters for Students

Meeting the FAFSA Priority Date is crucial for several reasons:

• Maximized Aid Eligibility: Submitting your FAFSA early ensures you are considered for all available financial aid, including federal grants, work-study opportunities, and institutional and state scholarships.
• Timely Aid Processing: Early submission allows the financial aid office to process your application before the semester begins, reducing the risk of delays in receiving your aid.
• Protection from De-registration: CCC offers the option to set up a Pending Financial Aid Payment Plan, if you have a complete FAFSA application on file, allowing you to remain registered for classes while your financial aid is processed.
• Avoiding Upfront Costs: If you miss the priority date, you may need to pay for classes up front or set up a payment plan while awaiting your financial aid award.

 

What to Do

• Submit Early: Complete your FAFSA as soon as possible after it becomes available. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the FAFSA opened on December 1, 2024.
• Check Specific Dates: Each university may have its own priority date. However, our priority deadline is May 1^st for the following Fall semester. Complete all the requirements for your FAFSA and complete your financial aid file by this date to maximize your aid eligibility.
• Complete All Requirements: Ensure that you submit all required documents, such as tax forms or verification materials, by the specified deadlines.

*The federal deadline and last day to apply for the FAFSA for that previous academic year is June 30.

Note: The deadline to start a new FAFSA form for the 2024-25 award year is June 30, 2025, and for the 2025-26 award year it is June 30, 2026.

By adhering to the FAFSA Priority Date, you enhance your chances of receiving the financial aid you need in a timely manner, facilitating a smoother start to your academic journey.