It’s nearly fall, and that can only mean one thing for students applying to college: It’s FAFSA time.
After several years of delays, the 2026-27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid will officially drop by Oct. 1. However, if you want to complete the form earlier, you can participate in the testing stage, which is currently open.
To help Indy students and families, the Center for Leadership Development will host three financial aid and college information sessions this fall. The first event will be Sept. 22.
INvestEd, a Carmel-based nonprofit that helps families with financial aid, scholarships and loans, will present on filling out the FAFSA. Experts will also be on site to help students and families complete the form.
The Commission for Higher Education will also provide information on 21st Century Scholars, a state scholarship program that gives students full tuition at in-state public colleges if they stay on track throughout middle and high school.
Attendees will also be able to connect with admissions reps from colleges and universities about academics, research and career opportunities.
If you go
The event is free and open to prospective college students and 21st Century Scholars in grades 7-12.
The center will host three sessions — Sept. 22, Oct. 9 and Dec. 4. All events will be from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Center for Leadership Development, 2425 Dr. MLK Jr. St.
If you plan to complete the FAFSA at the event, students and parents or guardians should create a federal student aid account beforehand, because the approval process can take several days.
To complete the form at the information session, make sure to have your Social Security number or immigrant registration number on hand, as well as 2024 tax return information, records of child support received and any other income or assets such as real estate investments.
Register for the event on the center’s website by selecting the date of the workshop you want to attend and filling out the form.
Mirror Indy, a nonprofit newsroom, is funded through grants and donations from individuals, foundations and organizations.
Claire Rafford covers higher education for Mirror Indy in partnership with Open Campus. Contact Claire by email claire.rafford@mirrorindy.org, at 317-759-0249 or on most social media @clairerafford.
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