As we step into the new year, we wanted to bring to your attention a significant change in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) timeline. This year, the FAFSA application period is set to open on December 1st (for the 2025-26 school year), deviating from its usual opening date of October 1st.
Whether your child is a high school senior preparing for college or you have a child already in college, the timely completion of the FAFSA is crucial in securing the financial aid necessary for their education. In light of the delayed release date for the 2025-26 academic year, we recommend completing the FAFSA as soon as possible when it becomes available. This will put you at the front of the line, allow the financial aid office to review your FAFSA submission, and provide you with a financial aid award letter as soon as possible.
Here’s what you should keep in mind amidst the delayed FAFSA opening:
- Everyone is in the same situation and their is nothing you can do about it
- Full steam ahead with admissions applications which will qualify you for initial scholarship offers at most colleges and universities
- If you are applying to schools that also require the CSS Profile go ahead and complete that application when the form is set to launch on October 1, 2024
- Both the student and parent should create their Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID) as early as possible so that when the application is available you are ready
- Control what you can control
Additionally, please remember that state and college deadlines may vary, so it’s essential to check for specific deadlines related to your child’s chosen institutions.
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