Today, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) is pleased to announce the launch of Open Beta, which makes online beta testing of the 2026–27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form available to all users. During the Open Beta period, any user can immediately start and submit a 2026–27 FAFSA form at StudentAid.gov/joinbeta. Users will no longer have to request access and wait to be admitted to participate in the beta.

Additionally, any user who previously requested access to the beta and has not yet been admitted will be admitted today and notified by email soon. All users can start the 2026-27 FAFSA beta form at StudentAid.gov/joinbeta. During this beta period, ED will continue to monitor the form’s performance under increased volumes. Just like other beta periods, ED will process FAFSA forms and send them to institutions of higher education and states.

Help us spread the word about Open Beta to students and families! Below, find updated email, newsletter, and social media language to promote to students and families.

Email/Newsletter Blurb #1

The U.S. Department of Education has opened online beta testing the 2026–27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form to all students and families. Now, you can start and submit a 2026–27 FAFSA beta form immediately. This is an excellent opportunity for you to complete your FAFSA form ahead of schedule and move one step closer to accessing federal student aid. Get started today at StudentAid.gov/joinbeta.

Email/Newsletter Blurb #2

✨ Be one of the first to submit the 2026–-27 FAFSA® form! ✨

The U.S. Department of Education has opened online beta testing of the 2026–27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form to everyone!

By joining beta testing, you can do the following:

Submit your 2026–27 FAFSA form early
Get a head start on the financial aid process
Be part of shaping the future of the FAFSA experience

📲 Sign up: StudentAid.gov/joinbeta