Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) early can be the difference between obtaining a degree and not going to college at all. According to the National College Attainment Network, cost is the biggest barrier to higher education, with more than 80% of students benefiting from some form of financial aid nationwide.

This vital support serves as a gateway to higher education for millions of students each year. Securing financial aid early can greatly increase a student’s chances of achieving financial stability and becoming successful in life.

“There is so much at stake for students who wait to do the FAFSA, from missing out on money to possibly not having your classes paid for or not having enough for housing,” says Rashaud Stiggers, a lead higher education adviser at Franklin D. Roosevelt High School of Innovation in Dallas. “It’s important for students to complete the application process sooner rather than later.”

United Way Supports Greater Access to Education

As a leader in education access, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas champions and invests in programs that improve educational outcomes for all North Texas students. That’s why we’ve partnered with Education is Freedom to encourage families to start the process of completing the FAFSA and Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA) early.

The U.S. Department of Education will release the 2025-2026 FAFSA form for testing beginning Oct. 1, with applications being made fully available by Dec. 1. United Way encourages students and families to be proactive during this testing phase—and use it as an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the steps to apply for financial aid. Families can also use this period to address any issues that arose from previous FAFSA submissions.

Get familiar with the FAFSA form and learn more about how financial aid works here. Parents and students can also click here to get assistance from Education is Freedom and a higher education adviser.

What’s Needed to Apply for Financial Aid?

Gathering all required documentation before starting the FAFSA form can set students up for success by preventing delays in housing assignments and enrollment. Must-haves include:

• Parents’ 2023 income tax return
• Parents’ marriage or divorce state, if applicable
• Parent’s birthdate(s)
• Parent’s social security number(s), if applicable
• Student’s 2023 income tax return, if applicable
• Student’s birthdate
• Student’s social security number, if applicable
• Student’s permanent resident card, if applicable

Support Access to Education in North Texas

Access to education is key to lifelong success. It ensures students are prepared for the careers of tomorrow, equipping them to become leaders who will solve our region’s biggest challenges. Ready to join us in ensuring local youth can achieve financial stability in life? Here are two ways to get involved:

Invest in Dollars for College to help local students achieve their dreams of attending and completing college.

Invest your time and sign up to provide youth with valuable mentorship, career exposure and one-of-a-kind STEM education experiences.