SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/teen-fafsa-state-deadlines-earlier

The federal FAFSA deadline is months away. Why file as early as you can anyway?

State and college aid can have much earlier deadlines, or run out first-come, first-served.

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  1. State and college aid can run out sooner ✔
  2. Early filers get an automatic bonus grant
  3. Late filers pay a fee

Why: Federal aid has a late deadline, but state and college aid deadlines vary and can be as early as October 1. Some aid is first-come, first-served, so check your state and school dates.

Huh, didn't know that: For 2027-28, Texas lists a priority date of January 15, 2027, while New York lists June 30, 2028.

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References

Answer: State and college aid can run out sooner. Federal aid has a late deadline, but state and college aid deadlines vary and can be as early as October 1. Some aid is first-come, first-served, so check your state and school dates.

  1. 2027-28 FAFSA Form (PDF), Apply by the Deadlines studentaid.gov/sites/default/files/2027-28-fafsa-form.pdf
    the deadline may be as early as October 1, 2026, or the aid may be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. 2027-28 FAFSA Form (PDF), 2027-28 FAFSA Deadlines studentaid.gov/sites/default/files/2027-28-fafsa-form.pdf
    Texas (TX) For priority consideration, submit by Jan. 15, 2027.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  3. 2027-28 FAFSA Form (PDF), Apply by the Deadlines studentaid.gov/sites/default/files/2027-28-fafsa-form.pdf
    We must receive your application no later than June 30, 2028.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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