Higher Ed News
Vol. 17 – Issue 17
2026-27 FAFSA Preview Presentation now available
Financial aid and college access professionals can now access Information and screenshots for the 2026-27 FAFSA to use for planning purposes, communicating changes, and training.
Verification reporting available soon; deadlines adjusted
Although financial aid professionals still face some deadlines for “verification of identity” reporting, the Department of Education has revised those deadlines somewhat due to a delay with the reporting system.
Department of Education announces key changes to 2026-27 FAFSA Form and Pell Grant Eligibility Updates
The Department of Education has outlined specifics on how federal budget reconciliation will impact the FAFSA form and Pell Grant eligibility.
Breaking News – FAFSA Central to feature latest updates
Anyone interested in what’s happening with the FAFSA now has a new virtual “woodstove” of sorts to gather around and get the latest news.
FSA Fundamentals Training Series available to new and experienced professionals
Financial aid professionals know that understanding the basics is critical to administering federal student aid.
IRS Tax Return Transcript Matrix for 2025-26 Verification now available
Although the 2025-26 FAFSA processing cycle has been underway for months, the Department of Education has just released the 2023 IRS Tax Return Transcript Matrix.
Department of Education updates guidance on use of Federal Work Study funds for distributing voter registration information
Institutions will want to take note of updated guidance on the distribution of voter registration information and the allowable use of Federal Work Study (FWS) funds for these activities.
2025-26 FSA Handbook Volume 9 – The TEACH Grant Program – now available
Financial aid professionals, whose schools participate in the TEACH Grant Program will want to update their reading list with the latest volume of the 2025-26 Federal Student Aid Handbook.
