What is the consequence of failing to complete the FAFSA by the priority deadline?

Completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) by the priority deadline is crucial for students seeking financial aid for their education. When a student misses this deadline, the primary consequence is that they may have limited options for financial aid or funding. This means they might not be considered for certain types of aid, such as state aid or institutional grants, which are often allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

By submitting the FAFSA after the priority deadline, students might still qualify for some types of aid, like federal loans, but miss out on potentially more beneficial financial resources that could help cover tuition and other educational expenses. This limitation can impact a student's ability to fund their education effectively and may increase their reliance on loans rather than grants or scholarships, which do not require repayment.

In summary, while missing the priority deadline does not disqualify a student from receiving any aid, it certainly restricts their options, making it more challenging to secure the financial support they might need.