FAFSA Changes

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2026-2027 FAFSA

The 2026–2027 FAFSA introduces several updates aimed at making the application process simpler and more efficient, while also adjusting how financial aid eligibility is determined. Students and families can now complete the FAFSA more quickly, with instant FSA ID verification and a streamlined process for inviting contributors, such as parents, using only an email address. These changes are designed to reduce delays and make the form easier to navigate.

In addition to process improvements, some financial information is treated differently. In many cases, small family businesses and farms are no longer counted as assets, while foreign income is now included when determining eligibility. These adjustments may affect how a student’s financial need is calculated.

The guidelines for Pell Grant eligibility have also been updated. Students with a higher Student Aid Index (SAI) may no longer qualify for Pell Grants, depending on their financial circumstances. As a result, some students may see changes in the amount of grant aid they receive.

The FAFSA continues to use the Student Aid Index (SAI), replacing the previous Expected Family Contribution (EFC), and maintains a shorter, more streamlined format. It also no longer considers the number of students in college within a family when determining aid eligibility. Overall, the 2026–2027 FAFSA is designed to be easier to complete, with faster processing, though some families may experience changes in their financial aid awards due to the updated formula.

You may have questions regarding these changes. Our financial aid department is here to help answer any questions. Please feel free to contact  [email protected].

What's changed with the FAFSA?

The 2026–2027 FAFSA builds on the simplified format introduced in 2025–2026, which included a shorter application, the use of the Student Aid Index (SAI), and automatic tax data transfer. The overall process remains faster and easier to complete.

New for 2026–2027 are a few key updates. The application process is more streamlined, with instant FSA ID verification and an easier way to invite contributors. Some financial reporting rules have also changed, including excluding certain small family businesses and farms as assets and including foreign income in aid calculations.

There are also updates to Pell Grant eligibility. Students with a higher SAI may no longer qualify, which could reduce aid for some. Overall, while the structure remains the same as 2025–2026, the 2026–2027 FAFSA introduces adjustments that may change aid eligibility for some students.

The 2026–2027 FAFSA continues the streamlined format introduced in recent years, making it quicker and easier to complete. Students and families benefit from a shorter form and improved usability.

Creating and using an FSA ID is now faster, with instant verification. Students can also invite contributors, such as parents, using just an email address, simplifying the process.

Pell Grant eligibility has been adjusted. Students with a higher Student Aid Index (SAI) may no longer qualify, which could impact the amount of grant aid awarded.

The FAFSA still uses the Student Aid Index (SAI), remains shorter than older versions, and continues to use prior-prior year tax information.

While the FAFSA is easier to complete, changes to financial calculations may affect how much aid some students receive. It’s important to file early and review your results carefully.

 

What Isn’t Changing?

While the 2026–2027 FAFSA includes updates to the application process and aid calculations, several key aspects remain the same:

  • The FAFSA is still required each year to be considered for federal and state financial aid.
  • Dependency status questions that determine whether a parent must contribute information remain unchanged.
  • The FAFSA continues to use prior-prior year tax information, meaning you will report 2024 income and assets on the 2026–2027 application. Students with significant income changes may request a review for special circumstances.
  • The general types of financial aid available to BVCTC students, as well as federal student loan limits, remain the same.
  • Questions about gender, race, and ethnicity are used for statistical purposes only and do not impact aid eligibility. BVCTC does not receive this information from the FAFSA.

Workforce Pell

Workforce Pell is a proposed expansion of the federal Pell Grant.

  • What it does: Allows Pell Grants to cover short-term job training programs (as short as ~8–15 weeks), not just traditional college degrees.
  • Who it helps: Students seeking quick workforce credentials (e.g., healthcare tech, CDL, IT certifications).
  • Why it matters: Makes federal aid usable for faster, career-focused training, especially for adult learners and low-income students.
  • Status (as of now): Proposed/partially advancing in Congress, but not fully implemented nationwide yet.

Disclaimer:

The Financial Aid Office at BVCTC is dedicated to providing timely updates to students, families, and our community. We will continue to update this page as new information becomes available from the U.S. Department of Education and Federal Student Aid regarding the 2026–2027 FAFSA and recent federal updates. We appreciate your patience as we work to implement these changes and ensure a smooth financial aid process.