OLYMPIA, Wash. – Incoming college students for the 2025-26 school year will need to wait until Dec. 2024 to apply for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA).
The Washington Student Achievement Council says applications usually open on Oct. 1, however due to delays and technical issues, the U.S. Department of Education announced that the 2025-26 application needs more testing.
Applications also had a delayed start in 2023 due to the FAFSA Simplification Act that required the FAFSA to be a shorter and less complex form and the need for a new Student Aid Index.
To complete the FAFSA, applying individuals must create a Federal Student Aid ID. WASFA applicants must also register for a WASFA account.
2025-26 applicants in a family of four making up to $120,500 can qualify for aid in Washington.
