Paying for college is one of many families’ biggest financial challenges. With tuition costs rising, securing financial aid is more important than ever.
The good news? The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is getting a significant overhaul for the 2025-26 academic year, which could make the process easier for students and their families.
Whether applying for financial aid for the first time or navigating it again, understanding these updates and best practices can help you maximize your funding opportunities.
This guide covers everything from key FAFSA changes to deadline reminders and application tips, helping you get the most out of financial aid.
Key FAFSA changes for the 2025-2026 academic year
The FAFSA determines eligibility for student grants, loans, and work-study programs each year, but the application process will be revamped for 2025-26.
Here’s what’s changing and why it matters.
A more streamlined process
The FAFSA form has been simplified to reduce confusion and make it easier to complete. Expect fewer questions and a more user-friendly experience.
Student aid index (SAI) replaces expected family contribution (EFC)
Instead of the Expected Family Contribution (EFC), aid eligibility will now be determined using the Student Aid Index (SAI)—a new formula designed to reflect better what families can afford.
This could lead to changes in financial aid awards for many more students than before.
Expanded Pell Grant eligibility
Thanks to updated income calculations that better reflect financial need, more students may now qualify for Pell Grants.
New tax year data requirements
The FAFSA will continue to use prior-prior year (PPY) tax information, meaning families will report income from 2023 for the 2025-26 application.
This ensures the process is based on actual tax returns rather than estimates.
Shifting FAFSA deadlines
The FAFSA typically opens on Oct. 1 each year, but the rollout for 2025-26 may have adjustments.
Staying on top of these deadlines is critical to securing aid.
Critical financial aid deadlines
Deadlines matter—a lot.
Missing key dates could mean losing out on valuable aid opportunities.
The number one tip for financial aid is to remember the following deadlines.
Federal FAFSA deadlines
The FAFSA usually opens on Oct. 1 and closes in June of the following year, but many states and colleges have much earlier deadlines. Check the policies for your specific state and the schools you wish to apply to.
Tip: Submit your FAFSA as soon as it opens to increase your chances of receiving the maximum aid.
State and school deadlines
Some states and colleges have priority deadlines months earlier than the federal deadline.
Many schools operate on a first-come, first-served basis for limited funds, so applying early gives you a better shot at grants and work-study opportunities.
How to stay on track:
- Check your school’s financial aid deadlines
- Review your state’s FAFSA deadline
- Set reminders to complete the FAFSA early
How to maximize your financial aid
Maximizing your financial aid starts with understanding the process, meeting key deadlines, and avoiding common mistakes that could cost you valuable funding.
Start preparing early
The FAFSA requires several documents, and gathering them ahead of time can make the process much smoother.
Create a checklist that includes:
- Social Security numbers (for both student and parents)
- 2023 tax returns
- Bank account balances
- Investment and asset details
Submit your FAFSA ASAP
Many financial aid programs run out of funds, so applying early can improve your chances of receiving grants or work-study offers.
Avoid common mistakes
- Misreporting income or assets: Entering incorrect financial information can lead to delays or lost aid opportunities.
- Leaving sections blank: If something doesn’t apply, enter “0” instead of skipping it.
- Not signing the FAFSA: The student and a parent (if dependent) must sign the form using an FSA ID.
Report special circumstances
If your family has experienced a significant financial change—like a job loss, medical expenses, or unexpected bills—you can submit an appeal to the office of financial assistance.
Many schools have procedures in place to adjust aid based on special circumstances.
Look beyond financial aid
- State grants & institutional aid: Many states and colleges offer their own need-based aid—check directly with your school’s financial aid office.
- Scholarships: Don’t underestimate the power of scholarships. Local, national, and college-specific scholarships can provide thousands of dollars in additional funding.
- Work-study programs: These programs allow students to earn money while in school—another great way to offset costs.
Use scholarship search tools
Finding scholarships doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Find scholarships for financial aid on these websites:
- Fastweb
- Scholarships.com
- College Board (of the school you’re applying to) scholarship search
These can help you find opportunities that match your background, interests, and academic achievements.
Frequently asked questions about financial aid tips
- When should I start preparing to complete the FAFSA? Start organizing your financial documents and researching deadlines several months before it opens.
- What happens if I miss the FAFSA deadline? You may miss out on grants, work-study opportunities, and certain scholarships. Some schools may still offer aid, but your options could be limited.
- How will financial aid be affected if my family’s financial situation changes after I submit the FAFSA? Suppose your financial situation changes due to job loss, medical bills, or other major life events. In that case, you can contact your school’s financial aid office to request a reevaluation of your aid package.
- Does it cost money to submit a FAFSA? No! FAFSA is 100% free to submit. If a website asks for payment, it’s a scam.
- What types of aid does the FAFSA cover? The FAFSA determines eligibility for:
- Grants (free money that doesn’t need to be repaid, like Pell Grants)
- Work-study programs (where students can earn money through part-time campus jobs)
- Federal student loans (which must be repaid but often have lower interest rates than private loans)
How College Benefits Research Group can help
Navigating the financial aid process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.
College Benefits Research Group (CBRG) provides expert guidance to help families secure the maximum aid possible.
Expert FAFSA assistance
CBRG walks families through the FAFSA step by step, ensuring accurate and timely submission.
Customized financial planning
We develop strategies tailored to your family’s unique financial situation to maximize aid eligibility and minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Scholarship search support
We help families identify and apply for hidden scholarship opportunities that many students overlook.
Appealing financial aid decisions
If your initial aid offer isn’t enough, we’ll help you craft a strong appeal letter to request additional aid.
Take control of your college funding today
Paying for college doesn’t have to be stressful—taking the proper steps now can make all the difference.
Contact College Benefits Resource Group today for expert help maximizing your financial aid.
Join our college planning workshop to learn how to unlock the best educational funding opportunities!
