FAFSA — the Free Application for Federal Student Aid — opens every October 1. While you won’t actually fill it out until fall 2027, understanding it now puts you ahead of the curve.
What is FAFSA?
FAFSA is the form colleges use to determine your eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Many schools also use it to award their own institutional aid. Filing it is free and required to access most financial aid.
Why It Matters for Class of 2028
When senior year arrives (2027-28), you’ll want to file FAFSA as close to October 1 as possible. Many schools have limited grant money that goes to students on a first-come, first-served basis.
What to Do Now
- Make sure your parent(s) have or create a Federal Student Aid ID (FSA ID) — they’ll need one to co-sign your FAFSA
- Bookmark studentaid.gov
- Keep up your grades — GPA matters for both admissions and merit aid
More Resources
- Ohio Student Aid Commission (OSFA) — Ohio-specific grants
- College Prep Hub on this site — full freshman-through-senior timeline