Education Department Opens 2027-28 FAFSA Early

The U.S. Department of Education announced the opening of the 2027-28 Free Application for Federal Student Aid on September 23, giving students and families an earlier opportunity to apply for federal college aid. Officials described it as the earliest launch in the program’s history. The form is usually available starting October 1, and the reported September opening followed a September 24 launch for the previous application cycle. The FAFSA is used to apply for federal grants and student loans, and its information also helps many states and colleges determine eligibility for their own aid. The earlier availability gives applicants and schools more time to consider financial-aid options during college planning, though the sources do not establish that early filing guarantees a particular award. The Department says the redesigned form uses clearer language and allows applicants to invite a parent or other contributor by text message or email. The changes are intended to make the form easier to complete. Financial-aid expert Mark Kantrowitz said most families can finish it in under 15 minutes.