Missouri State University

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Financial Aid 

How to Apply

Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) – either through the Internet (using FAFSA on the Web) or by completing a paper FAFSA. 

FAFSA on the Web:  You can apply by going to www.fafsa.ed.gov. 

Missouri State recommends using FAFSA on the Web, if possible:

  • FAFSA on the Web immediately identifies potential errors and prompts you to make on-the-spot corrections.

  • You get online instructions for each question, and you can "chat" live online with a customer service representative.

  • Once you submit your application, your information goes immediately into the U.S. Department of Education's Central Processing System (CPS).

  • The CPS will process your application in three to five days, provided you (and your parents, if applicable) have provided electronic signatures.

The Paper FAFSA:  If you don't have Internet access, you can get a paper FAFSA from your high school, local library, postsecondary school, or from the Federal Student Aid Information Center at 1-800-4-FED-AID.  The CPS will process your application in two to four weeks.