The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
With the search for free money underway, it's time to get down to brass tacks. That is, complete the FAFSA.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is the form used to determine eligibility for all financial aid. In other words, you must submit a FAFSA to be considered for grants, work-study, and federal student loans, including Federal Stafford and Federal Parent PLUS loans.