Federal student aid open for 2025-26 school year
By Ashley Luthans
Following a year with an extensive delay, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) has opened for the 2025-26 school year much closer to its normal timeline.
While FAFSA applications generally open on Oct. 1 each year, changes to the system last year kept students from being able to apply for assistance until late winter. There was a slight delay this year, with applications opening in late November.
This year’s delays were mostly due to beta testing that ensured the system worked. Thousands of students submitted applications during the test period.
FAFSA matches college students with financial assistance that includes grants and scholarships from federal, state and individual school programs. Kaitlyn Venta, director of affordability with the Missouri College and Career Attainment Network, said that those planning on any post-secondary schooling should fill out an application.
“So if you are planning to go to college, community college, trade school, four-year university, in 2025, 2026, now is the time to file your FAFSA,” Venta said.
The application opens the door to various kinds of assistance, Venta says.
“The FAFSA is the key to financial aid,” Venta said. “If you need money for college, the FAFSA is the place to start. It can make you eligible for the Federal Pell Grant, the Access Missouri grant, any money from your college or university, as well as many private scholarships.”
Mallory Walker, a student at Missouri Western State University, has filled out FAFSA applications and said the process is not difficult.
“It’s been quite easy,” Walker said. “On the actual FAFSA website, it has everything you need to type out or documentation that you will need.”
Walker recommends students fill out applications as soon as possible to put themselves in the best position to receive assistance. Experts believe that more applicants than in previous years are expected to be eligible for financial aid this school year.
There are several things that students will need to apply for FAFSA. An FSA ID is used to login to FAFSA applications on the Federal Student Aid website. Students will also need their social security number (or A-number if not an American citizen).
Documents needed include federal income tax returns, bank statements and records of net worth and untaxed income, if applicable.
FAFSA applications are being accepted in Missouri until Feb. 3 and in Kansas until April 1. Students can apply at fafsa.gov.
