If you’re over 50 and heading back to school, you might be wondering if you’re even eligible for financial aid—let alone how to apply. The short answer? Yes, you absolutely can apply for FAFSA. And no, you’re not too old.
Whether you’re pursuing a degree for the first time, changing careers, or taking classes just for the joy of learning, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your gateway to grants, loans, and work-study programs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to apply—step by step—with tips tailored for older adult learners.
Why Apply for FAFSA After 50?
FAFSA isn’t just for recent high school grads. In fact, federal financial aid has no age limit. That means you can qualify for:
- Pell Grants (free money you don’t repay)
- Federal student loans with lower interest rates
- Work-study programs that offer part-time jobs on campus
- State or school-based aid tied to FAFSA completion
Plus, if you’re on a fixed income, your financial need may qualify you for more aid than you’d expect.
Step 1: Create Your FSA ID
Before you can fill out the FAFSA, you’ll need to create an FSA ID—a username and password used to log in and sign your application.
Visit studentaid.gov(https://studentaid.gov) and click “Create Account.” You’ll need:
- Your Social Security number
- A valid email address
- A mobile phone number
Tip: Write your FSA ID info down somewhere safe—you’ll need it every year you apply.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
FAFSA looks at your financial situation to determine aid eligibility. As an adult student, here’s what you’ll likely need:
- Your Social Security number
- Your federal income tax returns (from two years prior)
- Any W-2s or other income records
- Bank account balances
- Records of any untaxed income (like Social Security or pensions)
Good news: If you’re married, only your income (or your spouse’s, if applicable) matters. You don’t need to provide parent information.
Step 3: Complete the FAFSA Form
Once you’ve gathered your info, it’s time to complete the application at fafsa.gov or through the myStudentAid mobile app. Here’s how:
- Log in with your FSA ID
- Select the academic year you’re applying for
- Choose your school(s) using the Federal School Code
- Enter your financial information
- Sign and submit the form electronically
Tip: FAFSA opens October 1 each year. The earlier you apply, the better your chances at certain grants or school-based aid.
Step 4: Review Your Student Aid Report (SAR)
After submitting, you’ll receive a Student Aid Report (SAR)—a summary of the info you provided.
Look it over carefully for errors. If needed, you can log back in and make corrections.
Your SAR includes your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), which schools use to calculate how much aid you can receive.
Step 5: Contact Your School’s Financial Aid Office
Once your chosen schools receive your FAFSA, their financial aid offices will prepare an aid package. This might include:
- Grants (like Pell)
- Loans (subsidized or unsubsidized)
- Work-study opportunities
Reach out to the financial aid office directly with any questions—they’re there to help, and they’re used to working with adult learners.
Is there a maximum age to receive financial aid?
No. There is no age limit for federal student aid. Whether you’re 55, 65, or older, you can still receive federal grants and loans.
Can retirement income affect my FAFSA eligibility?
It can—but not always negatively. FAFSA uses adjusted gross income, so depending on your sources of income (like Social Security or pensions), your financial need may qualify you for significant aid.
Do I have to borrow student loans if I apply for FAFSA?
No. FAFSA simply opens the door to available aid. You are not obligated to accept loans. You can choose to accept only grants or work-study, or decline aid altogether.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Leave Free Money on the Table
Filling out FAFSA might feel intimidating at first—but it’s one of the smartest moves you can make if you’re going back to school after 50. Whether you’re earning a degree or taking a class just for fun, financial aid can make your goals more affordable and accessible.
Start now by visiting studentaid.gov(https://studentaid.gov) to create your FSA ID and begin your application. Your next chapter is waiting—and it might cost less than you think.