A smoother, simplified FAFSA rollout and an earlier opening date have pushed completion rates higher for the Class of 2026. The National College Attainment Network reported that more than a million seniors filed aid applications early and that about 26% of high‑school seniors had completed the FAFSA by Nov. 21—an 11.7% increase over comparable pre‑pandemic measures. Analysts credit the simplified form, instant FAFSA ID creation and better state‑level outreach for the surge; advocates say higher completion rates could support improved enrollment and persistence. Still, completion rates vary widely by state and by school income level, with lower rates in high‑poverty and urban districts. Financial‑aid offices and admissions teams should capitalize on the momentum: expand outreach to underperforming high schools, accelerate verification workflows, and prepare for increased early aid packaging to convert prospective students into fall enrollees.