The FAFSA form is the application you will use to apply for federal student aid programs offered by the U.S. Department of Education. Completing and submitting the FAFSA form is free, and it gives you access to the largest source of financial aid to help pay for college or career school. Federal student aid covers such expenses as tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation, and other related expenses, such as a computer and dependent care. In addition, many states and colleges use your FAFSA information to determine your eligibility for state aid and school aid, and some private financial aid providers may use your FAFSA information to determine whether you qualify for their aid.