FAFSA will open for the 2026-2027 year on
October 1, 2025.
The FAFSA (FREE Application for Federal Student Aid) may be filled out or submitted after October 1st. BEWARE OF OF PHONY FAFSA WEBSITES!! Use https://studentaid.gov ONLY!
DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION:
There really is no deadline to apply for the FAFSA. However, the earlier the better.
HOW TO APPLY:
All FAFSA applications need to be completed online. Go to https://studentaid.gov to get started.
Step 1: Go to https://studentaid.gov/fsa-id/create-account/launch to create an FSA ID. Both parent AND student need a FSA ID, which is a username and password that allows you to save your information electronically. Be sure to write down your FSA ID username and password as well as any security questions/answers so you can access these in upcoming years.
Step 2: Go to https://studentaid.gov/ and select "Log In". The FAFSA will require your tax information from the previous year, social security numbers, and birthdates. It is critical that accurate information is provided on the FAFSA - including full names (not nicknames) - or the FAFSA will process with errors, which will slow down the award process.
Step 3: Keep an eye on your email. After the application has been submitted, you should receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) within a few weeks.
QUESTIONS?
Applying for financial aid can be confusing and sometimes frustrating. You may call the financial aid office at the college you plan to attend to ask questions - they are the professionals and can give you accurate answers. I’m certainly not an expert, but I can also do my best to help you find the answers to your questions. Feel free to call me at 218.837.5101 ext. 164.