Don’t Wait! FAFSA Opens October 1 – Here’s How to Prepare

FAFSA Opens October 1, 2025

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step to unlocking federal, state, and college financial aid. Submit it as soon as possible after October 1 — some aid is first-come, first-served!

Step 1: Create Your FSA ID (Student & Parent Each Need One)

🔗 Create an FSA ID

• Both the student and one parent need their own FSA ID (username & password).

• Use a personal email (not school) and a phone number you’ll keep long-term.

• Save your login info — you’ll use it every year.

Student Instructions

🔗 Start the FAFSA Application

1. Log in with your FSA ID.

2. Select the correct year (2026–27 FAFSA if starting Fall 2026).

3. Enter personal info (SSN, date of birth, address).

4. List colleges where you want your FAFSA sent (up to 20).

5. Answer dependency status questions.

6. Invite your parent to complete their section.

7. Sign and submit with your FSA ID.

Parent Instructions

1. Log in when prompted with your own FSA ID (not your student’s).

2. Provide parent income/tax info (from 2024 tax return for the 2026–27 FAFSA).

   • Use the IRS Direct Data Exchange (DDX) to securely transfer tax info.

3. Provide household size, number in college, and financial details.

4. Review, sign, and submit with your FSA ID.

FAFSA Tips

• Submit early — some aid is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Double-check that the student and parent don’t mix up FSA IDs.

• After submission, review your Student Aid Report (SAR) for accuracy.

• A new FAFSA must be completed every year you are in college.

What You May See When You Log In

Some families are noticing a message about a federal court case affecting the SAVE Plan and other income-driven repayment (IDR) options.

• This notice only affects loan repayment tracking for current borrowers.

• It does not affect your FAFSA, your ability to submit it, or your eligibility for grants and scholarships.

• The Department of Education is temporarily pausing the release of some loan repayment information while the courts review the case.

• Stay up-to-date: StudentAid.gov/courtactions.

Disclaimer

Williams Educational guides the college application process. We are not financial aid advisors or planners. For specific financial aid questions, please get in touch with the U.S. Department of Education or your college’s office of financial assistance.