Congress Mandates October FAFSA Release After Improved Rollout
The Department of Education launches the 2025-26 FAFSA form early, addressing issues from last year’s flawed release and simplifying the financial aid process.
- The 2025-26 FAFSA form is now available, released 10 days earlier than the planned December 1 date following extensive beta testing.
- Congress has passed legislation requiring the FAFSA to be released annually by October 1, with the bill awaiting the President's signature.
- Last year’s FAFSA rollout faced significant delays and technical issues, leading to a drop in applications and frustration for many families and schools.
- The redesigned FAFSA features two-thirds fewer questions, streamlined processes, and expanded eligibility for Pell Grants, benefiting more low- and middle-income students.
- The Department of Education has nearly doubled call center staff and extended support hours to ensure smoother processing and assistance for applicants.
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