Exciting news from the world of financial aid! The U.S. Department of Education has launched the final Beta Testing Phase 4 for the 2025–2026 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Students and families can now complete and submit their FAFSA at studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa.

This phase ensures you can file a valid application early while the Department monitors system performance before the full launch on December 1, 2024.

What is Beta Testing Phase 4?

This phase allows students to submit real FAFSAs with all functionalities, including records sent to colleges within the usual 1–3 business days, while the U.S. Department of Education actively monitors the website for any issues. Your FAFSA will not need to be resubmitted once the full application launches.

Why File Now?

Filing early gives you a head start on accessing federal, state, and institutional aid. At Missouri State University, the FAFSA Priority Deadline is February 1, 2025—filing by this date ensures you maximize your financial aid opportunities, including grants, work-study, and scholarships.

How to Prepare

1. Gather documents like 2023 tax information, Social Security numbers, and account details. If you haven’t already created an FSA ID for yourself or any FAFSA Contributors you may include, do so now!
2. Visit studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa to get started.
3. Reach out to the Office of Student Financial Aid at Missouri State University for any questions or guidance.

Don’t wait—start your FAFSA today! The sooner you submit, the closer you’ll be to achieving your financial aid goals for the 2025–2026 academic year.

Go Bears! 🐻✨