If you are going to college, you will want to apply for financial aid. Some high school guidance counselors and teachers will help you apply before you even graduate high school, but if you didn’t get any help, you might be a little confused and intimidated by the financial aid process.

Not everyone qualifies for financial aid, but many people do. The best way to find out is by turning in the FAFSA as soon as possible. Here are a few simple tips that will make your application process go a little smoother.

Apply Online
You may have been given the FAFSA paperwork in high school or at your college orientation, but you can also apply online. Applying online is much easier and faster and the online application form offers tips and advice to help you fill it out as you go. You can also submit your completed application online and check the status of it whenever you want.

Getting ready for your 1st year of college? Real students tell you what surprised them the most: http://t.co/wNDLwZuONJ Have tips to share?

— Federal Student Aid (@FAFSA) August 19, 2014

Be Aware Of Special Circumstances
If you find out that you are not eligible for financial aid or are not going to get as much as you thought, see if there are any special circumstances that may have prevented you from getting the right amount. A guidance counselor or financial aid counselor will be able to help you fill out a special circumstances form and tell you if there are any other ways you can qualify for financial aid.

FACT: Adult students can get financial aid. There is no age limit when it comes to receiving federal student aid. pic.twitter.com/3kMhSqEjO6

— Federal Student Aid (@FAFSA) August 6, 2014

Keep Trying
If you don’t qualify for financial aid this year, don’t give up and keep trying. If your income changes you may be eligible for financial aid next year. There are a lot of things that can change in a year. You could be missing out on thousands of dollars if you don’t reapply every year.

If you are having a hard time applying for financial aid or are confused about eligibility, talk to a teacher or the financial aid office at your college and don’t be afraid to ask for help.