2026-2027 FAFSA Is Now Open; Apply Early

The 2026-2027 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now open. Maryland students and families are encouraged to complete it early, no matter what postsecondary education plans they are considering. By submitting the FAFSA, students know how much financial aid they qualify for through state, federal and institutional programs. Read more.
The FAFSA helps many students access money for college they otherwise could not. For more information, contact your MCPS school counselor or College and Career Navigator.
In completing the FAFSA, these tips can help:
- Create a StudentAid.gov account (if you don’t already have one).
- Create your MDCAPS Account to access the Maryland College Aid Processing System (MDCAPS).
- Learn about the documents you may need to fill out the FAFSA form.
- Determine your dependency status and whether your parent(s) or spouse will be required to contribute information on the FAFSA form.
Montgomery College is hosting “How to Pay for College” from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 4, at the Rockville Campus (SV building). If you are coming in person, arrive by 9:30 a.m. The meeting will also be available on Zoom. (Meeting ID: 994 8086 9553; One Tap Mobile: +1 301 715 8592,99480869553# (Washington, DC)