Gov. Evers, DFI, and HEAB encourage Wisconsin students and families to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) in October

CENTRAL WISCONSIN – The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI), in partnership with the Wisconsin Higher Educational Aids Board (HEAB), today announced Gov. Tony Evers proclaimed October as FAFSA® Filing Month in Wisconsin. The proclamation encourages Wisconsin students and families to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) for the 2027-28 academic year.
“Completing the FAFSA® is an important step to ensure students have the resources and financial aid necessary to pursue higher education and reach their goals,” said Gov. Evers. “There are countless educators, counselors, mentors and community members who are ready to help students and families navigate these resources, and I encourage students and families to take advantage of this opportunity as soon as possible to start building toward their bright futures.”
The FAFSA®, which is completed annually, is used to determine eligibility for federal, state and school-based financial aid, including grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans.
Some private scholarship providers also require students to complete the FAFSA®. For those looking to enroll in postsecondary education during the 2027-28 academic year, it is important to submit the FAFSA® as soon as possible and take time to understand the various deadlines that apply. The 2027-28 FAFSA® is available now.
“Completing the FAFSA® is an important first step for students and families planning for education after high school,” said DFI Secretary Wendy K. Baumann. “Students should complete the FAFSA® as soon as possible to be considered for federal, state and school-based financial aid, including grants, scholarships, work-study and loans. Don’t wait to get started – the sooner you complete the FAFSA®, the sooner you can learn what financial aid may be available to help make your education goals more affordable.”

In Wisconsin, College Goal Wisconsin, an all-volunteer program that includes the commitment and support of many state agencies, businesses, secondary schools, colleges and universities, helps students and families with the timely completion of the FAFSA®.
College Goal Wisconsin is offering several free in-person and virtual FAFSA® completion events throughout the month of October. View the event dates and register to attend at CollegeGoalWI.org/Calendar-Of-Upcoming-Events/.
“Filing the FAFSA® is a crucial first step for Wisconsin students and families seeking financial assistance for education after high school,” said HEAB Executive Secretary Tammie DeVooght Blaney. “The FAFSA® is used to determine eligibility for federal, state, and college-based financial aid, including need-based grants and scholarships. We encourage students and families to complete the FAFSA® as soon as possible so they can be considered for the financial aid opportunities available to them and make informed decisions about how to pay for their education.”
For more information about Wisconsin’s student financial aid, including grant, scholarship, and loan programs, tuition reciprocity agreements and tuition capitation contracts, visit HEAB’s website at heab.state.wi.us. For more information about college and career readiness, student loan borrowing and repayment and the Wisconsin 529 College Savings Program, visit DFI’s website at dfi.wi.gov.