The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is now open earlier than in past cycles. Students must complete the form to be considered for state and federal aid, including Pell Grants and need-based federal support that does not have to be repaid. Education leaders say the application can take 15 minutes or less for the second consecutive year.
Ohio's most recent FAFSA completion rate was below the national average. For the high school class of 2026, 56.9% of Ohio students submitted an application, while 64.4% of their peers nationwide did so. High school counselors and college financial aid offices are suggested starting points for families seeking help.
Several nonprofit groups and colleges are offering free assistance this fall. I Know I Can serves public school students in Columbus, South Western, and Whitehall, with in-person workshops in October and November. The Muskingum County Community Foundation provides virtual help by appointment. College Now of Greater Cleveland is holding completion events at public libraries in Cuyahoga and Summit counties during October.
LEAF works with about two dozen high schools in Cuyahoga, Lake, Geauga, and Portage counties and will host an online session on Nov. 2. Toledo Tomorrow assists students and families across its region via an online contact form. The Cincinnati Youth Collaborative supports students in 14 counties and offers one-on-one online appointments with its regional FAFSA manager.
Sinclair Community College in Dayton has workshops for prospective, new, and returning students, with registration online.