INDIANA – Hoosier families with current and future college students should anticipate delays in accessing financial aid. The Department of Education has announced that the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2025-26 school year will be available later than usual, launching on December 1 instead of the typical October 1 release date. This postponement aims to prevent potential technical issues.
Bill Wozniak, Vice President of Marketing for Indiana-based nonprofit InvestED, which offers free financial aid assistance, highlighted the challenges students and parents face. “Until the actual FAFSA filing season begins, unexpected problems can arise,” Wozniak explained. “While some issues from last year have been addressed, we remain cautiously optimistic.”
To prepare, Wozniak recommends that parents and students start by obtaining a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID, a process that InvestED can help with. “Our team of experts is ready to assist with getting the FSA ID or completing the FAFSA itself, providing comfort through local expertise,” he said. Families can reach InvestED at 317-715-9007.
Although the FAFSA will have limited access on October 1 for a few individuals, Wozniak advised most families not to rely on early filing. “Plan on December 1,” he emphasized. “Many believe they can file on October 1, but that’s unlikely for the majority.”
Families can reach INvestED for assistance at 317-715-9007.
