The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the key to unlocking college financial aid from federal, state (see Go Higher ), and local sources. Eligible students who are unable to complete the FAFSA may still be able to access state financial aid at Massachusetts colleges by completing the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA) instead. Applying for financial aid helps keep college an option for the fall but does not commit you to enrolling. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid FAFSA or Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid MASFA as early as possible to maximize the aid you'll receive! Curious about FAFSA completion rates in your community? See our dashboard . If you're a high school principal, see our resources for encouraging students to complete the FAFSA or MASFA .