Those planning to submit a free application for federal student aid, known as FAFSA, are running out of time to do so.

State Department of Education officials are reminding those planning to file for the student aid that the deadline to apply is May 1.

First-time applicants enrolled in a community college; business, trade or technical school; hospital school of nursing; designated Pennsylvania open-admission institution; or nontransferable two-year program have an extended deadline of Aug. 1, 2023.

Khalid N. Mumin, acting secretary of education, said the FAFSA funding can help make college an affordable reality for students by reducing or eliminating the need to borrow money.

FAFSA is an important tool for students seeking postsecondary education opportunities, whether they’re stepping onto campus for the first time or returning in the fall. Current and prospective undergraduate and graduate students should submit the FAFSA application to the U.S. Department of Education to determine eligibility for federal student aid, Mumin said.

By filling out FAFSA, students can receive federal grants, work study, and loans for each year of postsecondary education.