Step 1

Create or retrieve your studentaid.gov account. First-time applicants must create an account which will be used to log into the FAFSA application and serve as your legal signature. It will also allow you access to all federal student aid online systems. Use your legal name as it appears on your social security card. If you need assistance with creating or retrieving your account, view the Frequently Asked Questions or call the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-433-3243 for help.

If you are a dependent student, a parent will also need an FSA ID. Parents without a Social Security Number (SSN) will be able to apply for an FSA ID for 2024-25. This will speed up FAFSA processing time, and they will be able to submit the form online rather than having to print, sign, and mail their application.

Step 2

Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Make sure you select the correct academic year. For example, the 2025-26 FAFSA refers to fall 2025, spring 2026 and summer 2026.

Read the questions carefully and use the help buttons if needed. You can also stop by the Financial Aid Computer Lab in Founders Hall and one of our Peer Technicians can assist.

Step 3

List Delaware County Community College’s school code on your FAFSA: 007110.

Step 4

After submitting your FAFSA, you should receive a follow-up e-mail from the U.S. Department of Education. Follow the directions to view your FAFSA Submission Summary. Review the report carefully for important information. Please do not make corrections before checking with Financial Aid staff.

Step 5

If you’re a Pennsylvania resident, you will be given the option to transfer your information to the PA State Grant application when submitting your FAFSA. On your FAFSA confirmation page, look for the link that reads Optional Feature—Start your state application—Click here if you want to apply for Pennsylvania state-based financial aid. This information applies to state financial aid, not the federal programs. To be considered for the PA State Grant you must complete their application process by logging in to PHEAA.

Step 6

Within 3-6 weeks check your financial aid status through delaGATE. delaGATE is the College’s web portal system and is used for all communications to you. Check it frequently for important information about financial aid and to view College announcements and emails.

Step 7

Additional documentation or action may be required to finalize your financial aid. Check delaGATE frequently to stay informed. You should respond immediately in order to minimize any delay in the process. The U.S. Department of Education may select you for a process called verification. This is a process for confirming the information provided on the FAFSA is accurate. If selected, you will be notified both on your FAFSA Submission Summary and also by email from the Financial Aid Office.

Step 8

If you decide to accept the Federal Direct Loan offered on your financial aid award, please secure the loan by completing both entrance counseling and the Master Promissory Note (MPN) at www.studentaid.gov.