FAFSA Resources
Are you a student in a mixed-status family wanting to complete the 2025-2026 FAFSA application?
The FAFSA application is NOW OPEN for all students. With the release of an updated FAFSA last school year, there are considerable changes for students in mixed-status families.
Below, you will find the steps necessary to complete the FAFSA application for mixed-status families.
1. Creation of FSA ID for student and contributor/parent
Student and parent will each create their own FSA ID. If a parent does not have a Social Security Number, simply check the box stating the individual does not have a Social Security number. DO NOT use an ITIN when creating the FSA ID.
Verification and submitting additional documentation is NOT REQUIRED to log in and complete the FAFSA application.
Please note the personal information entered by the parent. When the student invites the contributor, the information has to be exact (name, address, email, etc.). Even small differences, like using “Drive” or “Dr,” can cause errors.
2. Student logs in and complete their portion of the application.
Gather any documents you may need in advance. They can include: 2023 tax return (if any), current cash balances, savings, and checking accounts.
When adding a contributor, make sure the information you are adding and the information from their account is exact (name, address, email, etc.)
3. Contributor/Parent accepts the invitation to student application
After the student invites the contributor, an email will be sent to the contributor to accept and join the student application.
4. Contributor/Parent completes their portion of the application
Contributors without an SSN will need to manually enter their income and tax information, including their adjusted gross income and income taxes paid. They will need a copy of their 2023 tax return to complete this section. We still encourage all contributors to enter an ITIN if they have one.
5. After student and contributor/parent sign, application is submitted
6. Confirmation email will be sent to the student
Data Protection for FAFSA Information
The information collected by the Department of Education through FAFSA includes: student name, social security number, date of birth, contact information (including an email address, mailing address, and phone number), driver’s license number (if applicable), and financial information as well as contributor name, SSN (if applicable), date of birth, contact information (including an email address, mailing address, and phone number), driver’s license number (if applicable), and financial information. A PO box can be used as a mailing address.
There must be an explicit agreement in place whenever information is shared across federal agencies. Currently, the Department of Education shares information with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to confirm the status of students who apply for FAFSA as eligible non-citizens. There are currently no agreements in place allowing DHS to use information collected as part of the FAFSA for the purposes of immigration enforcement.
The use of FAFSA information is governed by the Privacy Act of 1974. The Privacy Act clarifies that information cannot be disclosed without written consent. There are 12 exceptions to this. Of these 12 exceptions, two are especially relevant when it comes to FAFSA:
“Routine use”: This allows agencies to share information for a designated set of purposes. These purposes must be published in the Federal Register.
Law enforcement request: This allows agencies to request information for civil or criminal law enforcement purposes. Such requests must be made in writing by either the agency head or officials at or above the “section chief” level.
FAFSA information is also protected by the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA).
At Aliento, we understand the importance of privacy and security. We acknowledge that although the information shared in FAFSA applications is protected and only used for determining financial aid eligibility, that may not be the case in the future. FAFSA is an essential step towards accessing financial aid for higher education, and we want to provide as much information as possible to ensure a safe and successful FAFSA process.
Arizona University Priority Deadlines
Arizona State University (ASU) - February 1st
Northern Arizona University (NAU) - May 1st
University of Arizona (U of A) - May 1st
Additional Resources
What do we do?
If you are a student in a mixed-status family still experiencing issues with the FAFSA application, please fill out this form, and we will contact you with assistance.
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