The U.S. Department of Education has officially released the 2025–26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, ten days ahead of its intended December 1st launch date. The online application is now accessible at fafsa.gov, and the department is actively processing submissions to send them to educational institutions. A paper version of the form is also available.
Over recent months, feedback from students, parents, schools, and other stakeholders has been integrated into the FAFSA process. The department conducted comprehensive testing through a beta period starting October 1st. During this time, over 167,000 students submitted their applications online, with records sent to more than 5,200 schools nationwide.
U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona stated: "I'm pleased to announce that after four successful rounds of beta testing, the 2025–26 FAFSA form is now available to all students and families." He emphasized that "FAFSA is working and will serve as the gateway to college access and affordability for millions of students."
Efforts have been made by the department to modernize internal systems and improve user experience. Additional resources have been provided to assist users in navigating the FAFSA process.
U.S. Under Secretary of Education James Kvaal expressed gratitude: “Thank you to everyone who has helped the 2025–26 FAFSA launch successfully and ahead of schedule.”
To manage increased demand following the release, staffing at the Federal Student Aid Information Center has been expanded significantly with over 700 agents added since January and plans for an additional 225 agents in coming weeks.
Jeremy Singer, FAFSA Executive Advisor noted: “The 2025–26 FAFSA form that we officially released today is the same form that has been live for the past seven weeks.”
The department will continue monitoring both the FAFSA form system and contact center operations closely in order to make any necessary adjustments.
Additional resources have been made available including tools like “Who’s the Parent on the FAFSA Form?” Wizard and updated videos on their YouTube channel aimed at aiding applicants through this cycle.
Extended contact center hours specifically for FAFSA support are being offered until March 2nd next year.
