The U.S. Department of Education has taken another step towards the roll-out of the 2026–27 FAFSA with the launch of Phase 2 of beta testing. Phase 2 commenced on Monday August 25th.
Unlike the first phase, which was limited to select community partners, now any student or contributor can request to participate in the beta program through StudentAid.gov/joinbeta.
The initial beta phase launched earlier in August, working with schools and community organizations in Arizona, California, Florida, Mississippi, and Washington, D.C. Those sessions wrapped up on August 15, helping the Department test early systems and gather feedback before opening access more broadly.
This expansion allows students and families nationwide to preview the redesigned FAFSA, provide feedback, and help identify improvements before the form goes live. As a reminder, outreach resources for financial aid professionals, counselors, mentors, and community partners through FAFSA Central.
On Target for October 1 Launch
U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon sent a letter to Congress certifying that the 2026-27 FAFSA will be available on time this fall for students and families. In the letter, Secretary McMahon confirmed that the form will launch by the October 1 deadline.
“Under President Trump’s leadership, our team has prioritized technical competence and expertise, which has led to the earliest testing launch of the FAFSA form in history, “said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon.
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