FAFSA & Applying for Financial Aid

Follow These Steps to Apply for Financial Aid:

Step 1 (For New Students): Apply to PVCC and Enroll Into a Program of Study

• Complete the College Application
  • When applying to PVCC, be sure to include your social security number (SSN). The SSN is a personal identifier that links the FAFSA application to your student account.
• Meet with an Academic Advisor
  • You can choose a program of study, either a degree or certification, at this time.

Step 2: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) 

• If you are a United States citizen or eligible non-citizen complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• If you are a Virginia state resident with a non-immigrant, undocumented, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, complete the Virginia Alternative State Aid application (VASA).
• To apply for financial aid for the Fall 2024, Spring 2025, and Summer 2025 semesters, complete the 2024-2025 FAFSA or VASA application.
  • This will require 2022 federal tax information.
• To apply for financial aid for the Fall 2025 semester, beginning August 2025, complete the 2025-2026 FAFSA or VASA application.
  • This will require 2023 federal tax information.
• Once you have completed and submitted your application, we will receive it within 3-5 business days.

Step 3: Update Your Contact Info 

• Update your address, email and phone number in the Student Information System (SIS).  
• Keeping your contact information up to date ensures the PVCC Financial Aid Office can contact you with updates about your financial aid and more.

Step 4: Check Your Financial Aid Status in Your SIS Student Center  

• Follow the steps here to review your To-Do List and access messages from the Financial Aid Office in your Message Center.
• Read About Your Financial Aid Award
• Complete the PVCC Federal Direct Loan Request Form if you are accepting a Federal Student Loan offer.

FAFSA Help and Videos

How to Complete a FAFSA

How to Create an FSA ID

How to Access Your FSA ID If You Forgot It

Determining Your Dependency Status 

Understand and Prepare FAFSA Form Contributors

What Happens After You Submit Your FAFSA Application