How To Answer Student Demographic Information For FAFSA®

10. Number In College

This question is designed to be used by colleges to determine if multiple siblings are in college. While the Student Aid Index (SAI) phased out using this number for undergraduate, some schools still might use it for graduate school.

How To Answer These Questions

• Enter the number of members in the student's family who will be in college between July 1, 2026 and June 30, 2027.

Can I Skip These Questions?

Yes, you can skip this question if you were born before 2002, are married or remarried, or you selected "First-Year, Second-Year, or other Undergraduate" for the level of college you're applying for the FAFSA.

11. Student Demographic Information

These questions are for statistical purposes only. 

How To Answer These Questions

Starting with the 2026-27 FAFSA, there are only two allowable responses – male or female.

Can I Skip These Questions?

No, they are required.

12. Student Race And Ethnicity

These questions are for statistical purposes only. 

How To Answer These Questions

Select the race or ethnicity that identify you or your heritage. You can select more than one.

Can I Skip These Questions?

No, they are required.

13. Student Citizenship

This question determines your eligibility for aid. A student must be a U.S. citizen or national, a citizen of the Freely Associated States, a lawful permanent resident, or other eligible noncitizen to be potentially eligible for federal student aid.

How To Answer These Questions

Select the box that matches your citizenship status:

• U.S. citizen or national
• Eligible noncitizen
• Neither U.S. citizen nor eligible noncitizen

Eligible noncitizens should provide their "A-Number" in the box.

Can I Skip These Questions?

No, they are required.