FAFSA completion rates for the high‑school class of 2026 have surged: 1.5 million students (38.6% of the class) filed forms through January, a 51.9% increase over last year, according to the National College Attainment Network. The early Oct. 1 FAFSA opening and a simplified form have driven large increases in filings from low‑income and high‑minority schools and lifted projected Pell eligibility. NCAN CEO Kim Cook said the smoother process is restoring trust in financial aid and expanding access. FAFSA is the federal aid application used to determine Pell and other need‑based awards; higher completion typically expands enrollment opportunities for lower‑income students.