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15h ago

FAFSA Stays Open During Shutdown as 2026–27 Applications Are Processed

Experts urge early filing to protect state and institutional aid given the risk of slower support from furloughs.

FILE - The U.S. Department of Education building is seen in Washington, on Nov. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File)
WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 20: A sign marks the location of the U.S. Department of Education headquarters building on June 20, 2025, in Washington, DC. (Photo by J. David Ake/Getty Images)

Overview

  • The 2026–27 form went live Sept. 24, a week ahead of the anticipated Oct. 1 launch, and applications are being accepted normally.
  • The Education Department says essential FAFSA processing and federal aid disbursements continue during the shutdown, though 87% of agency staff are furloughed.
  • Analysts warn prolonged furloughs could slow technical fixes, verification responses and personalized assistance even if submissions proceed.
  • Applicants are urged to file soon to maximize federal, state and institutional aid, with some state deadlines earlier than the federal window, including March 2 in California and April 15 in Kansas.
  • Create a StudentAid.gov account and gather tax returns, bank records and other documents; dependent students must include a parent’s information, can use the IRS retrieval tool, and should save confirmations and contact school aid offices if issues arise.