Data analyzed by the National College Attainment Network shows FAFSA simplification has produced a sharp rise in students eligible for the maximum Pell Grant: about 1.7 million more recipients in the 2025–26 cycle compared with pre‑reform levels, a roughly 27% increase. The NCAN analysis used Office of Federal Student Aid data to quantify the change. NCAN reported gains across other Pell tiers as well, including a large increase in students eligible for minimum awards. The groups attribute the change to the bipartisan FAFSA Simplification Act, which reduced barriers to completion and changed eligibility rules. While the surged eligibility improves affordability metrics, NCAN cautioned that Pell funding levels may not keep pace with demand and warned of the erosion in grant value if appropriations remain flat. Institutions and policy makers now face pressure to translate eligibility gains into sustained enrollment and completion.