Federal and Private Student Loan programs are different in many ways. While college students can benefit from both sources of financial aid, it’s important to know the differences between the two to avoid confusion after completion of your education.

FAFSA is the free federal application form for financial aid, which is generally the first step to apply for college financial assistance. Federal student financial aid deadlines generally run from July 1 of the current year to June 30 of the next calendar year. Free FAFSA application forms are available online at Fasfa.Ed.Gov web site.