The 2026-27 FAFSA®

Instant FSA ID Verification

• If you have a Social Security number, your FSA ID will now be verified instantly with the Social Security Administration—no more waiting days to start your FAFSA!

New Date of Birth Requirement

• To calculate the Student Aid Index (SAI), the date of birth for a parent, spouse, or partner is now required. Missing this information will result in Reject Code 69.

Updated Gender Question

• The gender question now asks: “What is the student’s sex?” with only Male and Female as response options.

Expanded Race & Ethnicity Categories

• Race and ethnicity are now combined into one question, with more inclusive options—such as Hispanic subgroups and Middle Eastern/North African categories.

Clearer Asset Questions

• Asset-related questions now include improved definitions and helper text to better explain net worth and what should be excluded.

Simplified Contributor Invitations

• Inviting a parent or spouse to complete their section is easier than ever. All you need is their email address no need to enter their full name, SSN, or date of birth.

Removal of “Legal” from Residence Questions

• Per the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), the term “legal” has been removed from residence-related questions to promote more inclusive language.

Full Cost of Attendance Covered? No Pell Grant.

• If you receive scholarships or grants from non-federal sources that cover your entire cost of attendance (COA), you will not be eligible for a Pell Grant, even if you meet other requirements.

Foreign Income Reporting

• Starting with the 2026–27 FAFSA, any foreign earned income exclusion will be added to your adjusted gross income (AGI). This may affect your Pell Grant eligibility.

High Student Aid Index (SAI)

• If your SAI is equal to or more than twice the maximum Pell Grant amount, you won’t qualify for a Pell Grant.
• For the 2026–27 award year, this cutoff is $14,790.
• Exception: Students who qualify under the Special Rule (e.g., dependents of certain deceased servicemembers or public safety officers) are not affected by this limit.

We understand that the financial aid process can sometimes feel overwhelming—but you're not alone. Our dedicated team is here to guide and support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need help, please feel free to reach out to us at finaid@laredo.edu.

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