Quick Definition
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the US government's financial aid application for domestic students. International students are NOT eligible for federal financial aid via FAFSA. However, some US universities offer need-based institutional aid to international students — applied for through CSS Profile or institutional forms.
FAFSA (US Financial Aid) — Full Explanation
International students cannot file FAFSA but should check each university's institutional aid application (CSS Profile). Few US universities offer need-based aid to international students — primarily elite schools like MIT, Harvard, and Princeton which meet 100% of demonstrated need regardless of nationality.
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