Central State University highlights early release of 2025–26 FAFSA form

FAFSA now available online following successful testing 

Central State University today announced that the U.S. Department of Education has released the 2025–26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) earlier than anticipated, making it available online at fafsa.gov as of Nov. 21, 2024. Originally scheduled for Dec. 1, this early release follows months of extensive beta testing and system enhancements aimed at improving user experience and access to financial aid. 

Students and families can now complete the FAFSA online or submit a paper application. For additional assistance, the Federal Student Aid Information Center has expanded its hours and staff to accommodate increased demand. 

CSU’s Office of Financial Aid is located in the Norman E. Ward Sr. Center and can be reached at financialaid@centralstate.edu or 937-376-6579. 

“The Office of Financial Aid at Central State University is committed to helping students access the financial resources they need to achieve their educational goals,” said LaVerne Wallace, interim director, Financial Aid. “With the 2025-26 FAFSA now open, we encourage all students to apply as soon as possible. Many scholarships, including several offered by the University, rely on FAFSA information, and some are awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis."

"Our team is here to support students every step of the way, from answering questions to navigating the application process, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed.” 

Learn more about financial aid at CSU by visiting https://www.centralstate.edu/admissions-aid/financial-aid-and-scholarships.  

Improved FAFSA process after extensive testing 

Since Oct. 1, the Department of Education conducted rigorous beta testing involving over 167,000 students. Various stakeholders, including students, families, schools and community-based organizations, received the application. Feedback from these groups informed updates that ensure smoother functionality and accessibility. 

During this period, FAFSA data was successfully processed and sent to over 5,200 educational institutions. The department's efforts include new tools and resources to help families navigate the process with ease. 

Significant benefits for students and families  

In a press release, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona emphasized the form’s role in expanding access to higher education: 

“The FAFSA is a gateway to affordability and opportunity for millions of students. With this early release, we’re on track to make a greater number of students eligible for Pell Grants this year compared to last.” 

Key improvements include: 

• Modernized systems and enhanced user features for the FAFSA form. 

• A new "Who’s the Parent on the FAFSA Form?" tool to simplify application steps. 

• A revamped Federal Student Aid Estimator to help families calculate eligibility. 

Support and resources for applicants and counselors 

Recognizing the increased demand, the Federal Student Aid Information Center has nearly doubled its staff, adding over 700 agents this year and scheduling additional hires. Extended hours for FAFSA-related inquiries include evening and Saturday availability. 

The Department of Education has also introduced several resources to guide students and counselors through the FAFSA process, such as: 

• Updated FAFSA videos on the Federal Student Aid YouTube channel. 

• The 2025–26 FAFSA Counselor Resource Guide. 

• A downloadable FAFSA Roadmap for families and advisors. 

Next steps for students 

Central State University encourages students and families to complete their FAFSA forms as early as possible to maximize financial aid opportunities. Assistance is available via the Federal Student Aid Information Center in both English and Spanish, with additional interpretation services upon request. 

For more information, visit fafsa.gov.

Expanded FAFSA Contact Center hours 

Now through March 2, 2025: 

• Mondays: 8 a.m.-9 p.m. ET and 10 p.m. ET for FAFSA-only support hours

• Tuesdays and Wednesdays: 8 a.m.-8 p.m. ET and 10 p.m. ET for FAFSA-only support hours

• Thursdays and Fridays: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and 10 p.m. ET for FAFSA-only support hours

• Saturdays: Noon–5 p.m. ET 

• Sundays: Closed

Learn more at https://studentaid.gov/help-center/contact. 

Central State University is proud to support the financial aid process and remains dedicated to making higher education accessible for all students.