FAFSA: Your First Step to Financial Aid

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the key to unlocking financial aid at BC3. Completing your FAFSA early ensures you get the best aid package available. 

Filing Your FAFSA

The FAFSA takes about 30 minutes to complete if you have your documents ready — and we’re here to support.

When You Plan to Attend BC3 FAFSA to File Uses Tax Info From
Fall 2025, Spring 2026, or Summer 2026 2025–26 FAFSA 2023 federal tax return and W-2
Fall 2026, Spring 2027, or Summer 2027 2026–27 FAFSA 2024 federal tax return and W-2

Steps to Apply

Your FSA ID is your secure login and electronic signature for all federal student aid forms.

  • Who needs one? You (the student) and any required contributors, like a parent or spouse.
  • When to do this? At least 4 days before you start the FAFSA.
  • Why it matters: You’ll use the same FSA ID every year to renew your FAFSA, sign loan documents, and check your federal aid history.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your gateway to federal, state, and institutional aid.

Where to file: FAFSA at studentaid.gov

What to include: List Butler County Community College (BC3) as your school so we receive your results.

What you’ll need:

  • Your federal income tax return and W-2 forms
  • Social Security numbers (student + parent contributors, if required)
  • BC3’s school code: 003240

The Pennsylvania State Grant offers additional financial support for students who are PA residents.

After filing your FAFSA, look for a link to PHEAA on the confirmation page or visit PHEAA.org to complete the form directly.

Deadlines:

  • Renewal Applicants: May 1
  • First-Time Applicants: Aug. 1 

Note: Completing this step right away ensures you don’t miss out on state aid.

Note: After you’ve finished these three steps, BC3’s Student Financial Services Office will process your results and send you a financial aid award notification to your home address or to your myBC3 email. 


Upcoming FAFSA Workshops

Filing for financial aid can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At a FAFSA Workshop, our team will walk you through the 2026-27 FAFSA application and help you make college more affordable.

Oct. 29 | 11 AM-6 PM
Student Success Center
BC3 Main Campus

Book Appointment

Nov. 19 | 11 AM-6 PM
Student Success Center
BC3 Main Campus

Book Appointment

Can't make it to a workshop?

We're Here to Guide You

Schedule a one-on-one appointment with BC3’s Student Financial Services team. We will guide you through the FAFSA process and connect you with the right resources to make college affordable. 

student in classroom

One-on-One Appointments

BC3’s Financial Aid advisors are available to answer questions about: 

  • FAFSA completion 
  • Grants, loans, and work-study 
  • Scholarships and special aid circumstances 
Contact Student Financial Services to schedule an appointment.

Schedule Appointment

Explore Financial Aid Resources