The federal government has begun a beta testing phase for the 2027-28 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), set to officially open in October. Changes to the form include updates designed to simplify the application process, though eligibility for early access remains limited to specific groups. Prospective students and families considering whether to submit their applications ahead of schedule should weigh the potential benefits against the risks of submitting incomplete information. The beta period offers a preview of the new system before the official launch.
The 2027-28 FAFSA is open in beta ahead of its October 1 launch. Here's what's new on the form, who qualifies for early access, and whether to file now.
