If you’re keeping your eyes out for higher education news, you may have heard that the 2025-26 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), is now available in beta testing mode before the official launch on December 1, 2024. Here are some steps you can take now to get yourself prepared for the experience.

1. Watch a Financial Aid Overview. MEFA provides a live, weekly presentation on the financial aid process within its Financial Aid 101 webinar series. Register to attend one of these events, which are offered during both daytime and evening hours and presented by subject matter experts.
2. Get Your FSA ID. To begin the FAFSA, you’ll need a username and password, called an FSA ID. You can set that up anytime, and you’ll need to do so at least a few days before you begin your application in order to have your identity verified. To find out who in your family will need an FSA ID, reference MEFA’s chart. And then go ahead and establish your FSA ID now here.
3. Find Out Your Deadlines and Requirements. Each college sets its own deadline and requirements. Check the website of each college to find out what’s expected. In addition to the FAFSA, which is required by all colleges and universities, you might need to complete another application such as the CSS Profile, or submit other documentation.
4. Gather Your Documents. When completing the FAFSA you’ll need to report the birth date and SSN for the student and parent(s), as well as income and asset information for each individual. Find out the details of what you’ll need to report, and gather the necessary documents now.
5. Use a Student Aid Index (SAI) Calculator. Your Student Aid Index (SAI) is a number calculated from your FAFSA data, and it helps financial aid offices determine how much aid you’re eligible to receive. Using an SAI Calculator, like the one offered by MEFA, can give you a sense of the questions you’ll be asked on the FAFSA and your potential eligibility for financial aid.

As you navigate the financial aid process, reach out to MEFA’s College Planning Team with questions or if you need guidance. You can find them at (800) 449-MEFA (6332) and collegeplanning@mefa.org.

About MEFA

MEFA is a state authority, not reliant on state or federal appropriations, established under Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 15C. MEFA’s mission, since its founding in 1982, has been to help Massachusetts students and families access and afford higher education and reach financial goals through education programs, tax-advantaged savings plans, affordable loans, and expert guidance. All of MEFA’s work aligns with the ever-present goal to support the independence, growth, and success of Massachusetts students and families. Visit mefa.org to learn more or follow MEFA on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

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