Beginning with the Class of 2022, students must complete the Free Application for Student Financial Aid (FAFSA) or a non-participation waiver as part of their requirement for graduation. 

Alabama Administrative Code, Rule 290-3-1-.02 (21)

Effective with the 2021-2022 school year, the following requirements shall be fulfilled on behalf of the graduating senior as part of the graduating senior’s transition into post-secondary education, training, or the workforce: 

1. Submit to the United States Department of Education a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA); or 

2. Certify a non-participation waiver, in writing, to the superintendent of the local education agency if the graduating senior chooses not to complete and submit FAFSA. Certification of the non-participation waiver may be completed by a parent, legal custodian, legal guardian, or a minor legally emancipated or of the legal age of majority. 

Non-Participation Waiver

• You must have the recommendation of the school principal and school counselor. 

• Only the LEA Superintendent may grant a non-participation waiver.

Alabama has become the fourth state to include the completion of the FAFSA as a graduation requirement. Students will receive information and instructions for completing the FAFSA with the senior counselor. Parents may contact the senior class counselor at Central High School for more information.

Alabama Possible - Gov. Ivey's FAFSA Month Declaration

Alabama Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Completion Project: Memorandum

Alabama high school students are required to fill out FAFSA for graduation starting in 2022.

New FAFSA graduation requirement is a step forward for Alabama

FAFSA Fast Facts

Resources:

Overview of the Financial Aid Process

Frequently Asked Questions about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Paying for College/ What is the FAFSA?

Federal Student Aid Parent Resources 

2022-23 FAFSA Walk Through: Step by Step Guide to Completing the FAFSA

Alabama Goes to College Students & Families Guidebook

Financial Aid 101

Do You Need Money for College or Career School?

The Financial Aid Process

Financial Aid and FAFSA Guide