How to Prepare for Your GRASP Appointment

Follow the steps below to get the most out of your GRASP advising appointment. Need to make an appointment? If you’re at one of GRASP’s partner schools, contact your school counseling office.

1. Before your first appointment, complete the Student Data Sheet.

• Click here to open the data sheet, then click to download.

• Open the data sheet from your files and complete as many fields as you can. If you can’t fill in any fields, try downloading the free version of Adobe Acrobat Reader (for desktop or mobile) and using it to open the data sheet.

• Save the completed data sheet and email the file to your GRASP Advisor.

• This step is optional; it is not mandatory.

2. Need help filing the FAFSA? Get a jump start by creating your FSA ID now. The FSA ID can also be obtained at the same time you complete your FAFSA.

• The FSA ID functions as your legal signature, allowing you to complete and sign the FAFSA online.

• Click here to create your FSA ID, or at your first meeting, your GRASP Advisor can help you with this step.

• In many cases, a contributor/parent (https://studentaid.gov/apply-for-aid/fafsa/filling-out/understanding-fafsa-form#contributors) may need an FSA ID as well.

3. Click here to review the documents you will need to complete the FAFSA.

• For your appointment, you’ll need to access the FAFSA online here.

4. Bookmark or Download the Opportunities Workbook.

• The Opportunities Guide is a helpful tool for understanding financial aid and choosing the right school for you. Your advisor may refer to this guide during your meeting.

• View or download the 2026-2027 Virginia Opportunities Book here.

5. If you are not able to complete the FAFSA due to your citizenship status:

• GRASP advisors can help with the new VASA (Virginia Alternative State Aid) Application for Virginians who are nonimmigrants, undocumented, have Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status or are otherwise ineligible to file the FAFSA and want to be considered for state financial aid. (vasaapp.org)

• Applicants will be considered for state need-based financial aid, including the Commonwealth Award, Virginia Guaranteed Assistance Program and more!