FAFSA completion hit an all-time high for the class of 2026, fueled by earlier form release and multiple process and policy improvements. The National College Attainment Network’s FAFSA Tracker shows more than 55%—over 2.2 million students—submitted the FAFSA as of May 8, reaching the record weeks ahead of prior cycles. NCAN attributed the rebound to the earlier Sept. 24 release date, expanded support from counselors and college access groups, and Office of Federal Student Aid process improvements such as instant verification. State policy also played a role: New Mexico, Florida, Alaska, and Arizona posted year-over-year increases of at least 20%, while nine states adopted universal FAFSA measures. NCAN also cited higher filing rates among low-income and high-minority high schools after the January 2024 rollout disruptions of the simplified form.