Help and Knowledge Base

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What is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) helps determine your eligibility for federal, state, and school-based financial aid, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study. Filing your FAFSA could unlock funds that don’t need to be repaid!

When to Complete:

  • Complete the FAFSA at  for both the current and upcoming aid years.
  • File as early as possible to maximize financial aid opportunities.
  • Submit a new FAFSA each year to cover all eligible semesters.

Tip: The 2025–2026 FAFSA covers Summer 2025, Fall 2025, and Spring 2026; the 2026–2027 FAFSA covers May 2026, Fall 2026, and Spring 2027.

How Do I File?

  1. Visit
  2. Use UMGC’s school code 011644.
  3. Fill out your information and submit.

To learn more, read this guide to or reach out to the Office of Financial Solutions.Ìý

After You Submit:

  • Review your Student Aid Report (SAR).
  • Make corrections if needed; you’ll receive email notifications.
  • Accept aid offers and complete any required counseling or loan agreements.
  • Disbursements occur on Tuesdays and Thursdays; refunds may take up to 14 days.

Learn more at or on the  website.

Ways to Contact Support for More Assistance

By Chat

Live chat support is available
Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–10 p.m. ET.

The UMGC Help Bot is available for FAQs 24/7.

By Phone

°ä²¹±ô±ôÌý855-655-8682 for student services (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. ET).

°ä²¹±ô±ôÌý888-360-8682 for technical support (24/7).

By Email

Email the support team or submit documents using the UMGC Help Center.