Fill out the free application for federal student aid (FAFSA) as soon as you and your parents have filled out your taxes for the previous year. Our tip? Do your taxes as soon as you get all of the necessary W-2s and other forms. Do it in January, if possible. Government money is distributed on a first-come,  first-serve basis, and there is little or nothing left at the end of August.

TIP: The FAFSA is not a fun form to fill out, and mistakes can be costly. Your parents will need patience and fortitude to work through it. Remember being extra good in December so Santa would be good to you? During your college financial aid years, you’ll want to be extra nice to your parents in January. Bring them all the aspirin and pencils they call for and look as grateful as you can. They’ll deserve it.