A National College Attainment Network analysis of federal aid data found that FAFSA simplification led to 1.7 million additional students qualifying for the maximum Pell Grant in the 2025–26 award year — a 27% increase versus pre‑simplification levels. The NCAN report credits streamlined application rules and eligibility formulas for the jump in maximum and minimum Pell recipients. The surge in Pell eligibility has immediate enrollment and affordability implications for colleges and state policymakers, even as advocates warn that level funding for Pell could erode the grant’s value if appropriations do not rise to match increased demand.