Which form is primarily used for applying for federal financial aid?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the primary form used for applying for federal financial aid. This application is crucial for determining a student's eligibility for various types of federal aid, including grants, work-study, and federal student loans. It collects essential financial information from students and their families, which is used to calculate the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and subsequently, the financial need of the student.

FAFSA is the gateway for federal funding and many state and institutional aid programs as well. Completing this form is typically a requirement for any student seeking assistance from federal sources, making it a critical step in the financial aid process. Other forms, like the CSS Profile or scholarship applications, serve different purposes, such as assessing eligibility for private funding or institutional scholarships, but they do not directly provide access to federal financial aid programs like the FAFSA does.