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Financial Aid Basics

Applying for Federal Financial Aid

To be considered for federal financial aid, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). 

  1. Visit the FAFSA Website: Go to StudentAid.gov and create an account. 
    • Every contributor who is required to provide information on the FAFSA form (you, your parent or parent’s spouse, your spouse) needs a StudentAid.gov account before accessing and completing their section of the online form. For more information on contributors, click here.
  2. Complete the FAFSA Form:
    • Follow the step-by-step instructions on StudentAid.gov.
    • NDSCS school code is 002996. 

The FAFSA form for the 2024-25 aid year is available until June 30, 2025. The FAFSA form for the 2025-26 aid year is expected to be available on or by December 1, 2024. 

It is important to complete the FAFSA every year as NDSCS and North Dakota state scholarship/grant office uses your FAFSA data to determine your eligibility for state and school aid, and some private financial aid providers may use your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for their aid. 

Have questions about the FAFSA? Visit the FAFSA Help and Frequently Asked Questions page.

General Eligibility Requirements

To receive federal, state or NDSCS-sponsored aid, a student must be working towards a degree or certificate in an eligible program. Federal regulations do not allow federal aid to be disbursed for repeated classes. Most federal aid requires at least half-time active enrollment.

  • Qualify for financial aid (except for certain loans)
  • Meet FAFSA eligibility requirements
  • Have a valid Social Security Number
  • Certify that you are not in default on a federal student loan and do not owe money on a federal student grant
  • Certify that you will use federal student aid only for educational purpose
Citizenship

To receive federal and/or state financial aid, a student must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or eligible non-citizen or non-resident, as determined by federal and state regulations.

Enrollment

To receive federal, state or NDSCS-sponsored aid, a student must be working towards a degree or certificate in an eligible program, with at least half-time active enrollment.

  • Full-time: 12 credits or more
  • Three-quarters time: 9-11 credits
  • Half-time: 6-8 credits
Satisfactory Progress

A student must maintain satisfactory progress with NDSCS to be eligible for financial aid.