2026–27 FAFSA Application Opens for Tennessee Students

Tennessee Kicks Off FAFSA Frenzy: Helping Students Take the First Step Toward College

The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) today announced that the 2026–27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now open for all Tennessee students. Students and their families can begin applying at www.fafsa.gov.

Last week, the U.S. Department of Education announced that the 2026–27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form is online and available, marking the earliest launch in the program’s history.

“Finishing your FAFSA is a crucial step for Tennessee students and families in making college possible,” said Dr. Steven Gentile, THEC Executive Director. “We encourage every student and family to take this first step, get started as soon as possible and access the financial aid available to them.”

Completing the FAFSA is the required first step to access a wide range of financial aid programs, including the Pell Grant, the Tennessee Promise scholarship, and the HOPE Scholarship. Families should have financial documents such as tax returns and W-2 forms on hand when filling out the application.

To support students and families, THEC leads TN FAFSA Frenzy, a Path to College event that provides students and families with step-by-step instructions, video guides, and other free FAFSA resources available at CollegeforTN.org/FAFSA.

From October through April 1, 2026, schools and community organizations across Tennessee will also host TN FAFSA Frenzy completion events, providing hands-on assistance to students and parents. By offering clear guidance and support, THEC and its partners aim to help families maximize eligibility for federal and state financial aid, making college more attainable for every student in the state.

Last year, students in Tennessee ranked #1 in the nation for FAFSA completion, according to the National College Attainment Network. With a record 75.7% completion rate among Tennessee Promise applicants, the state continues to set the standard in ensuring Tennessee students access aid.

Each year, THEC recognizes high schools across the state through the TN FAFSA Challenge, which highlights schools with outstanding completion rates or significant improvement. A list of 2024–25 FAFSA Champion schools is available at CollegeforTN.org.

For more information and to begin your FAFSA application, visit www.fafsa.gov.