FAFSA Beta for 2027-28 is Open
The Department of Education has opened Beta 2 testing for the 2027-28 FAFSA, meaning any student or parent can now request early access to complete the real form before its official October 1 launch.
Testing began in two phases. Beta 1, which started August 5, involved a limited group of school districts and institutions. Beta 2 opened access more broadly, with the Department admitting new groups of users throughout the month on a rolling basis.
A few things notes:
- This is the real FAFSA – Students who complete the form during beta testing are submitting an actual application. There’s no need to resubmit once the form officially launches.
- Corrections are still possible – Once processed, beta submitters can make corrections just like anyone who files after October 1.
- Filing early means results arrive early – Colleges can begin receiving these students’ aid data well ahead of the general public, which may help families get a jump start on award letters.
- Access isn’t guaranteed immediately – Students and parents request access through StudentAid.gov, and the Department is admitting new users in batches, so not everyone will get in right away.
For families eager to get ahead of the fall FAFSA rush, this is a nice way to do exactly that.
Request Beta 2 access at StudentAid.gov
