CASFA/FAFSA Checklist

The FAFSA and CASFA are online forms that require you to enter personal and sensitive information. If you prefer not to use a public computer, you’re encouraged to bring your own laptop. However, computers are available in our lobby for your convenience.

CASFA/FAFSA may not function properly on mobile devices or tablets, so using a desktop or laptop is strongly recommended.

If you’re unsure whether you are considered dependent or independent, you can check this federal student aid webpage to determine your dependency status. Although this webpage was created by FAFSA, the guidelines for dependency apply equally to CASFA.

Fall 2026, Spring 2027, and Summer 2027.

The university’s priority deadline is March 1. However, some financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.

Dependent students will need to provide their parent’s information, including 2024 tax information or estimated earnings for that year. Independent students who are married will need to include information about their spouse.

Not sure what your dependency status is? Check this federal student aid webpage to determine your dependency status. Although this webpage was put together by FAFSA, dependency guidelines are the same for CASFA.

– **Federal Student Aid:** FAFSA

– **State Financial Aid:** FAFSA or CASFA (awarded on a first-come, first-served basis)

– **Institutional Aid:** CASFA or FAFSA (awarded on a first-come, first-served basis)

Many scholarship programs also require a financial aid application.

The MSU Denver general scholarship application will be available on December 1 2025 for the 2026/2027 year.

Check out other scholarship opportunities here

Do not submit both applications. If you are unsure which application to use, please refer to the FAFSA vs CASFA guide below. If you’re still uncertain, connect with our friendly ISP staff for a one-on-one consultation.

The financial aid office at MSU Denver will start processing applications in the spring, prior to the beginning of the school year. Once your application is processed, you should be able to view your Student Aid Index (SAI) in your ‘My Financial Aid‘ portal.

If you do not see your SAI in the portal, it’s important to reach out to the financial aid office for assistance. Please note that it may take up to two weeks for your SAI to become available in your financial aid portal after submitting your financial aid application.

Solution: Create a new CASFA account. If you are unable to create an account, please contact CASFA directly by emailing [email protected]. Alternatively, you can schedule an appointment here with our friendly ISP for troubleshooting assistance.

Solution: Currently, the new platform only allows you to add US states. In the meantime, try adding “Colorado” as the state if you attended a school outside of the US.