The 2026–2027 FAFSA Guide last updated: May 22, 2025
Everything You Need to Know About the 2026–2027 FAFSA
In the past two years, the process for filing your FAFSA has been chaotic, to say the least. Changing deadlines, website restructuring, beta-testing, and more caused delays, confusion, and frustration for institutions and families alike.
This year, the Department of Education indicates they will reinstate the normal FAFSA dates. For some, however, “normal” may not be familiar to you. If this is your first, second, or millionth time filling out the FAFSA as a student or parent, let us give you this comprehensive guide to help give you everything you may need to know about the process.
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2026–2027 FAFSA Timeline
Below is a timeline, based on when the FAFSA becomes available, that we recommend you follow in order to receive your financial aid information as soon as possible.
| October 1, 2025 | FAFSA becomes available. (Recommended filing time) |
| January 1, 2026 | New year begins. |
| 1–2 weeks following submission | Cairn receives your FAFSA |
| 2–4 weeks following receiving your FAFSA | Cairn begins sending out Offers of Aid. |
| June 30, 2027 | 26-27 FAFSA Deadline |
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
Additional Resources
- Cairn Scholarship Estimator is a great way to get a more accurate approximation of what your aid could look like for Cairn. Our admission staff will review your submission and contact you shortly to discuss your aid.
- The Student Aid Index (SAI) is the new calculation for determining student financial need. The SAI estimator assesses the Federal funding a student can receive.
Why is FAFSA Important? | The Three Reasons to File ASAP
The academic year is over and summer is here! For some, college is on the horizon. For others, it’s the very thing you’re taking a break from. Whether you’re preparing
Your Toolkit for College Financial Aid Planning
There’s a lot to navigate in the college financial aid world. With the right guidance and resources, however, you can confidently make the best financial decisions for your education. Whether
Remember, we are here to help! If this FAFSA Guide is missing questions or concerns you have, you can contact Student Financial Services at [email protected] with any questions, or you can learn more at about our tuition and financial aid at cairn.edu/aid.
The 2026–2027 FAFSA Guide last updated: May 22, 2025
