Money and taxes
Who handles the FAFSA, federal grants and federal student loans?
Who handles it
The federal government’s Federal Student Aid office handles the FAFSA and federal grants, work-study and loans for college and career school.
- Federal
- Not State
- Not Local
Facts checked November 5, 2026 · 3 sources
Why federal government
The FAFSA is the federal application for this aid, and completing and submitting it is free.
What to do next
- Create an account and get a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID.
- Fill out and submit the FAFSA on time to be considered for federal student aid.
- For questions about repaying a federal student loan, contact your loan servicer.
What varies
States and colleges also use FAFSA information to award their own aid, and many states set their own deadlines.
Learn the background: What is the difference between federal, state and local government?
Sources
Official recordUSAGov: Federal Student Aid Information Center
Official recordUSAGov: Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Official recordUSAGov: Repaying your federal student loan