The U.S. Department of Education has officially opened the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for the 2025–2026 academic year and early action could make a big difference.
By filling out the FAFSA now, students may qualify for:
- Federal grants (like the Pell Grant)
- Work-study programs
- Subsidized and unsubsidized student loans
- Some state-level and institutional aid packages
“Aid is awarded on a rolling basis, and many programs have limited funds,” said a financial aid advisor. “That’s why applying early gives families the best shot at maximum support.”
Who Should Apply?
- High school seniors planning to attend college in Fall 2025
- Current college students renewing aid
- Adults returning to school or applying for vocational programs
To get started, visit studentaid.gov and gather necessary documents like Social Security numbers, tax returns, and bank info.
Tip: Create your FSA ID before applying. It makes the process smoother.
Even if you think you won’t qualify, it’s worth applying – many schools and states use FAFSA data to determine eligibility for scholarships and tuition discounts too.
