How Will the 2026 FAFSA Changes Affect Families? #collegeadvice #collegeadmissions #financialaid

Did you know there are major FAFSA changes coming in the 2026-2027 year that could limit how much financial aid your family is eligible for?

Families applying for college in the 2026 college school year will see some significant updates to the FAFSA process, and it is important to start planning early.

The first big change is that parents will only be eligible to receive up to twenty thousand dollars in loans from FAFSA. The maximum amount a parent can receive throughout the college loan per student will be capped at sixty-five thousand dollars..
This means families may need to look into private loans to cover the remaining costs, depending on the school and the financial aid package offered.

These numbers are still subject to change, but this is what we know so far. It is important to keep an eye on updates and prepare for different scenarios.

The second update has to do with student loans.
Starting in 2026, all federal student loans will be unsubsidized.
That means interest will begin accruing as soon as the funds are disbursed, even while your student is still in school.

Loan amounts will remain the same:

• $5,500 for freshmen
  
• $6,500 for sophomores
  
• $7,500 for juniors
  
• $7,500 for seniors
  

The structure is familiar, but the interest terms will make a difference in total repayment over time.

These FAFSA changes may impact how your family pays for college, so it is important to have a plan in place.
If you need help understanding how these updates apply to you or exploring your financial options, we are here to guide you.
Let College Help Squad be part of your process.