2026-27 FAFSA: What's Changed and Why It Matters for Tech Students

The Department of Education launched the 2026-27 FAFSA on September 24, 2025. This marks the first time in three years the department launched by October 1, and the earliest the FAFSA has ever launched.

• September 24, 2025 — 2026-27 FAFSA opens
• State deadlines — Vary by state; check your state's specific deadline
• College deadlines — Many priority deadlines fall in February-March 2026
• June 30, 2027 — Final submission deadline for 2026-27 FAFSA

After several cycles of delayed releases and technical issues, financial aid experts report that families are having a smoother experience. According to BestColleges, 'Students and parents alike are reporting that completing the FAFSA this year is faster and easier than ever.'

The 2026-27 FAFSA includes significant changes required by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed July 4, 2025. Here are the key updates:

According to Federal Student Aid, the maximum Pell Grant for 2026-27 remains strong, but eligibility rules have changed:

• SAI threshold: An applicant with an SAI equal to or greater than $14,790 (twice the maximum Pell Grant) is ineligible
• Foreign income: The foreign earned income exclusion is now added to AGI when determining Pell eligibility
• Maximum award: Approximately $7,395 for 2026-27 (subject to final appropriations)

One of the most significant changes affects graduate and professional students. According to MEFA, there is now a $257,500 lifetime borrowing limit on all federal student loans, excluding borrowed Parent PLUS loan amounts.

This matters particularly for students pursuing expensive graduate programs in technology fields. Computer Science MS programs at top schools can cost $60,000-$150,000, making loan limits a real consideration.

• Lifetime limit: $257,500 across all federal student loans
• Parent PLUS: Not counted toward the $257,500 limit
• Legacy provision: Borrowers with loans before July 1, 2026 have transition protections
• Graduate students: Most affected group due to higher program costs

Tech students face unique financial aid considerations given the range of program costs and formats available. Here's how to maximize your aid:

1. File early — Priority deadlines matter. Many schools award aid on a first-come basis.
2. Consider in-state options — Public university CS programs often have excellent outcomes at much lower cost
3. Calculate total cost — Factor in living expenses, especially for programs in expensive tech hubs
4. Research employer assistance — Many tech companies offer tuition reimbursement for relevant degrees
5. Explore scholarships — Tech-specific scholarships from companies and foundations can significantly reduce costs
6. Compare online vs. on-campus — Online programs often cost less while offering schedule flexibility