Yes. While many people hate the paperwork involved, you really should file a FAFSA even if you don’t think you’re eligible for federal assistance. Why? Because the FAFSA is also used to find out if you qualify for federal loans. Applying for Federal Student Aid Programs Using the FAFSA is free, so there is no good excuse for not applying. Unfortunately the belief that their own family is not eligible stops many parents and students from applying early - resulting in a late application after families are requested to write a check for tuition. Apply early and know for sure about your eligibility - then you will be in position to know all of your financing options when faced with the tuition bill.