The time is now for high school seniors, current college students, and those planning to return to school to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2025-2026 academic year. The FAFSA is a critical step in securing financial aid, including federal grants, work-study opportunities, and low-interest student loans to help pay for college or technical school.

The FAFSA form is open now, and it’s crucial that students submit their applications as soon as possible to maximize their financial aid potential. Many states and colleges award aid on a first-come, first-served basis, making early submission especially important.

Why Fill Out the FAFSA?

The FAFSA is the gateway to over $150 billion in federal aid, including:

• Pell Grants: Need-based grants that do not have to be repaid.
• Work-Study Programs: Opportunities to earn money to help pay for school through part-time work.
• Federal Student Loans: Low-interest loans for students to help cover the cost of tuition, books, housing, and other expenses. (UAHT does not process Federal Student Loans.)

Additionally, many state governments, colleges, and private organizations use FAFSA information to award their own scholarships and grants. Submitting your FAFSA is a must if you want to maximize your opportunities for financial assistance.

Who Should Complete the FAFSA?

• High School Seniors planning to attend college in Fall 2025.
• Current College Students who need aid for the next academic year.
• Adults looking to return to school or start a college program.
• Parents of dependent students should also prepare to contribute financial information.

How to Get Started

Filling out the FAFSA is simple and free. You can apply online at FAFSA.gov or through the myStudentAid app. To complete the FAFSA, you'll need:

• Your Social Security number
• Your 2023 federal income tax returns, W-2s, and other records of money earned
• Bank statements and records of investments
• Documentation of untaxed income
• An FSA ID to sign electronically (available at fsaid.ed.gov)

Important Deadlines

While the FAFSA deadline for federal aid is June 30, 2026, many states and institutions have earlier deadlines. Students should check the specific deadlines for their state and the colleges they are applying to. Submitting early ensures you don't miss out on valuable aid opportunities.

Need Help?

If you need assistance filling out the FAFSA, numerous resources are available:

• UAHT Financial Aid Office: Call 870-722-8264 for help with the FAFSA process.
• FAFSA Help Line: Call 1-800-4-FED-AID for guidance.
• Online FAFSA Help: Visit FAFSA.gov for detailed instructions and resources.

Don't leave money on the table. Fill out your FAFSA today and take the next step toward achieving your educational goals.

To speak with a representative from the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana, call 870-777-5722.