The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, opens on October 1 each year. For the 2027–2028 school year, you can fill out the FAFSA starting October 1, 2026. Filing early is key because many states and colleges give out aid on a first-come, first-served basis.
When Does the FAFSA Open Each Year?
The FAFSA opens on October 1 for the following academic year. For example, the FAFSA for the 2026–2027 school year opened on October 1, 2025. The FAFSA for the 2027–2028 school year will open on October 1, 2026.
You can submit the form any time after that date. There is no advantage to waiting until later in the year, so try to fill it out as soon as possible.
What Are the Deadlines for the FAFSA?
There are several deadlines you need to know. The federal deadline is usually June 30 of the academic year you are applying for. For the 2027–2028 year, the federal deadline is June 30, 2028.
However, your state and your college may have earlier deadlines. Many states set deadlines as early as February or March. If you miss a state deadline, you could lose out on state grants.
| Deadline Type | Typical Date | Example for 2027–2028 |
|---|---|---|
| FAFSA opens | October 1 | October 1, 2026 |
| State deadlines (varies by state) | February – March | Check your state’s deadline |
| College deadlines (varies by school) | February – April | Check your college’s deadline |
| Federal deadline | June 30 | June 30, 2028 |
Why Should You Fill Out the FAFSA Early?
Filling out the FAFSA early gives you the best chance to get the most financial aid. Some aid, like work-study and certain grants, is limited. Once that money runs out, later applicants may not get any.
Many states set priority deadlines. If you file by that date, you are considered for state aid. If you file after, you might miss out.
Colleges also use the FAFSA to create your financial aid package. Filing early gives you more time to compare offers and make a smart decision.
What If You Miss the Deadline?
If you miss a state or college deadline, you may still submit the FAFSA for federal aid. Federal loans are generally available to eligible students even if you file late. But you will not get state or institutional grants that have passed their deadlines.
So, even if you are late, it is still worth submitting the FAFSA. You might still get federal student loans or a Pell Grant if you qualify.
How to Prepare to Fill Out the FAFSA
Before you sit down to fill out the FAFSA, gather these items:
- Your Social Security number or Alien Registration number
- Your federal income tax returns and W-2 forms from the prior year
- Your parents’ tax returns and W-2 forms (if you are a dependent student)
- Records of untaxed income, like child support or veterans’ benefits
- Your bank statements and investment records
- A list of colleges you are applying to
Having these ready will make the process faster and more accurate. You can also use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool to automatically transfer tax information, but that tool may not be available for all filers.
What About the FAFSA Form Itself?
The FAFSA is available online at the official federal student aid website. You can also download a PDF version, but the online form is faster and easier. The online form also checks for errors and lets you save your progress.
You will need to create a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID to sign the form electronically. You can create your FSA ID before October 1, so you are ready to go on opening day.
Can You Fill Out the FAFSA Before October 1?
No, you cannot submit the FAFSA before October 1 of the year before the academic year you are applying for. The form is not available before that date. However, you can start gathering your documents and creating your FSA ID ahead of time.
Summary
Mark your calendar for October 1, 2026, to fill out the FAFSA for the 2027–2028 school year. File as soon as possible after that date to meet state and college deadlines. Even if you miss a deadline, submit the FAFSA anyway to qualify for federal aid. Being early gives you the best chance to get grants, work-study, and low-cost loans.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can you fill out the FAFSA for the 2027-2028 school year?
You can fill out the FAFSA starting October 1, 2026, for the 2027-2028 school year.
What is the deadline to submit the FAFSA?
The federal deadline is June 30, 2028, for the 2027-2028 year, but state and college deadlines are often much earlier.
Can I fill out the FAFSA before October 1?
No, the FAFSA is not available before October 1 of the year before the academic year you are applying for.
Is it better to fill out the FAFSA early?
Yes, filing early increases your chances of getting state and institutional aid, which is often limited.
What happens if I miss the FAFSA deadline?
You can still submit the FAFSA for federal aid, but you may miss out on state and college grants that have earlier deadlines.
