The 2026-27 Federal Student Aid application (FAFSA) has officially opened for students. The application opened on Sept. 24 for students and parents to complete.

Any student who wants to be considered for federal state aid and financial aid, which includes grants, scholarships and loans must fill out the application.

The application takes about thirty minutes. Students will need to visit studentaid.gov to complete the application. They will need their Federal Student Aid ID (FSA) along with their parents’ FSA ID. Students will also need their 2024 tax return information. If the student is dependent, they will need their parents’ tax information as well.

The application offers a new IRS Direct Data Exchange tool (FA-DDX). This asks for consent to exchange the individual’s federal tax information that is directly linked to the application. This helps make the process easier and more accurate, reducing mistakes.

“The sooner you complete your FAFSA, the sooner you will receive your award,” said Carly Freeman, one of Piedmont’s advisors in financial aid.

The federal aid awarded to students is on a first-come, first-served basis. The earlier students complete and submit their applications, the better it is for them.

This year, Piedmont is giving away a one-time $500 grant to students who complete their application and submit their involvement deposit by April 1. This offer applies only to incoming freshmen enrolling in the fall of 2026.

Students can meet with their financial aid advisor or visit the Office of Financial Assistance if they have any questions.