This article reflects updates to the 2026–27 FAFSA ® process, including how to invite contributors to the FAFSA form. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA ®) form is necessary for students to be eligible to receive federal student aid.
Ready to complete your FAFSA form? Make sure you have a StudentAid.gov account, tax and assets information, and a list of the schools you might attend.
What is the FAFSA ® form? Colleges and career schools use the FAFSA form to determine how much financial aid you're eligible to receive, which could include grants, scholarships, work-study funds, and loans. You must apply for aid every year, but with the right information in hand, it's easy.
A federal court issued an injunction preventing the U.S. Department of Education from implementing the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan and parts of other income-driven repayment (IDR) plans.
For federal aid, submit your FAFSA form as early as possible, but no earlier than December 2023. For state or college aid, you may need to submit your FAFSA form as early as December 2023, and you may need to fill out separate forms.
One Big Beautiful Bill Looking for information about the president's One Big Beautiful Bill Act? Visit Studentaid.gov for updates and any actions you may need to take. Received an Email from the Department of Education? Log in to your Aidvantage account to make payments and view your recent transactions. It's quick and easy! Keep Your Info Updated Make sure your contact details are current ...
