Inside the 2026–27 FAFSA® Beta: How Early Testing Is Shaping the Future of Student Aid
By: James Bergeron, Deputy Under Secretary
Last week, U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon joined more than 1,200 students and families in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to celebrate the earliest beta launch of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form! At Federal Student Aid (FSA), we know how important it is for students and families to have a FAFSA experience that’s clear, simple, and reliable – and we are delivering.
Beta 2 Is Now Open
We’re excited to announce that the second phase of 2026–27 FAFSA beta testing—or Beta 2—officially opened to the first group of 1,000 students and contributors. Any current or aspiring student—and their parent/guardian/contributor—can now request access to participate. We’ll admit groups of students through September.
This Beta 2 release is part of our multi-phase approach to ensure the FAFSA form is running smoothly before the full public launch later this year. Beta testing allows us to catch any bugs and incorporate updates based on feedback from students and families, such as enhanced navigation, clearer language, and better functionality throughout the form.
Students who submit the 2026–27 FAFSA form during this beta phase are submitting the real application, so there’s no need to resubmit later. Once the form is processed, they’ll be able to make corrections just like any other applicant.
Ready to sign up? Request access for the 2026–27 FAFSA Beta 2 today!
Why Beta Testing Matters
Beta testing is a proven method in the software world that allows us to test and refine a product in real-world conditions. For the FAFSA form, this means:
- catching bugs and technical issues early;
- refining usability and design; and
- improving performance for the fall launch.
We’re also learning from every student, parent, and counselor who interacts with the FAFSA form during this phase, because feedback is helping us shape a more stable and supportive financial aid experience.
Stay Informed with FAFSA Central
To support students, families, and professionals through every stage of the process, FSA has created FAFSA Central, which provides regular updates about
- beta testing;
- up-to-date information about FAFSA improvements and known issues; and
- helpful resources and guidance.
Whether you’re applying for aid, helping someone navigate the process, or just want to stay in the loop, FAFSA Central is built for you.
Moving Forward Together
The 2026–27 FAFSA Beta 2 is more than a testing phase, it’s a chance for students and families to shape the FAFSA experience before it launches to the broader public later this year. We’re proud to lead this effort with transparency, accountability, and a strong focus on service.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed their time, feedback, and voices so far. We’re building a stronger FAFSA form together, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
James Bergeron is a proud University of Louisiana at Lafayette alum and a first-generation college student.
