The 2026-27 FAFSA application is now open for students planning to attend college next year, with experts urging early submission.

The Education Department will continue processing applications despite the federal government shutdown.

California students must apply by March 2, 2026, for state aid.

NEW YORK — The Free Application for Federal Student Aid for the 2026-27 school year has officially opened.

Despite the U.S. government shutdown, the Education Department will continue to process the FAFSA.

If you plan to attend college next year, Jill Desjean, director of policy analysis at the National Assn. of Student Financial Aid Administrators, recommends that you fill it out as soon as you can.

Here is what applicants need to know:

How does the FAFSA work?

The FAFSA is a free gove

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