There’s nothing like being prepared to make something a little easier and less stressful, including completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
With the launch of the 2026-27 FAFSA by October 1, 2025, students and families can start doing some prep work in advance.
Federal Student Aid encourages students and families to prepare now so you can complete the 2026-27 FAFSA once it is available. Some tips include:
- Create a StudentAid.gov account (if you don’t already have one).
- Learn about the documents you may need to fill out the FAFSA form.
- Determine your dependency status and whether your parent(s) or spouse will be required to contribute information on your FAFSA form.
- If you’re a dependent student, use the Who’s My FAFSA Parent? wizard to identify which parent(s) will be a required contributor on your form.
If you have questions or need assistance, please contact the Mapping Your Future staff at feedback@mappingyourfuture.org or (800) 374-4072.
