FAFSA 2026–27 Is Now Open: What You Need to Know
The FAFSA is open for the 2026–27 school year! Whether you’re heading to college for the first time or returning for another year, now’s the time to secure the best possible financial aid package.
💡 What Is FAFSA, Anyway?
FAFSA stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It’s the form that determines your eligibility for grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and federal student loans.
The key word is free. You never have to pay to submit it, and completing it early can make a big difference.
🕐 Why Apply Early?
Financial aid is often awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. The earlier you file, the better your chances of getting free money before it runs out. Even if you think your family earns too much to qualify, file anyway! Some scholarships and state grants use FAFSA data to determine eligibility.
Before starting your application, gather your essential info.
🧾 What You’ll Need to Apply
Gather these essentials before you start:
Your Social Security Number (and your parents’, if you’re classified as a dependent student under FAFSA rules)
Your 2024 federal tax return (and your parents’ if you’re a dependent student), which will be used to determine your aid for the 2026–27 school year
Records of untaxed income, savings, and investments
A FSA ID (username and password for logging into studentaid.gov)
Once you have everything ready, the application usually takes less than an hour to complete.
🎯 FAFSA Isn’t Just for Undergrads
Graduate and professional students should also complete the FAFSA. While you won’t qualify for Pell Grants, you can still access federal unsubsidized and PLUS loans (often with very good rates and repayment options).
💚 A Few Extra Tips from 1st University Credit Union
Double-check your school list. You can list up to 20 colleges, and each will receive your FAFSA information.
File online at studentaid.gov. It’s faster and reduces mistakes.
Don’t wait for acceptance letters. Submit FAFSA now and update your schools later if needed.
Ask for help if you get stuck. Your school’s financial aid office and the Federal Student Aid Info Center are great resources.
Have a gap after grants, scholarships, and federal aid? We can help fill it. We offer private education loans for students, and for parents who want to help fund their student’s education. Learn more at culink.net/education-loans.
🌟 Final Word
Filing the FAFSA is one of the smartest financial moves you can make for your education. Whether you’re planning for Baylor, MCC, Tarleton, or beyond, start early. And don’t leave free money on the table.
Ready to apply? Visit studentaid.gov today and file your FAFSA for the 2026–27 school year. Because at 1st University Credit Union, we’re always Helping You Do College Life. 💚💛
Author: Shelley Carlson, EVP of Marketing and Relationship Management, 1st University Credit Union. She’s passionate about helping members make smart money moves and live life with confidence.