Money for college is available—fill out the FAFSA for Fall 2026!

Community Leaders and Alumni Student Speaker posing for a picture.

Monday, October 13, 2025
High school seniors—it’s time to apply for financial aid for college and technical schools! The first step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application shows students their eligibility for grants and loans, and is used by colleges across the country to develop each student’s financial aid package.

MPS kicked off the opening of the FAFSA season with an event on October 13 at Washington High School. MPS Superintendent Brenda Cassellius, along with Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, MATC President Anthony Cruz, and UWM Chancellor Thomas Gibson, encouraged students to submit their FAFSA as soon as possible.

All MPS families should be aware that completion of the FAFSA is a graduation requirement for the Class of 2026. Filling out the FAFSA often shows students that college can be affordable through grants and loans and opens a pathway to college or technical school. More information and the application link are available at  mpsmke.com/FAFSA. When filling out the application, be sure to click on the link for the 2026–27 school year.

Families and students who have questions about the FAFSA or the graduation requirement should meet with a high school counselor or College and Career Center advisor to learn more. After a meeting, families who are still unable to submit the FAFSA may request a waiver for this graduation requirement.

MPS has College and Career Centers in 21 high schools to help students fill out the FAFSA, explore colleges, write essays, and complete college applications. Hours vary by school. MPS students can contact any College & Career Center to get the help they need from a college and career advisor. For more information about College & Career Center locations, hours, and services, visit the MPS College & Career Centers page.

Students who wish to fill out the FAFSA should visit https://studentaid.gov/. Applicants are cautioned to use only this website and to avoid any websites that charge a fee.