BOSTON [1/22/26] – Massachusetts is currently ranked among the top five states nationwide for FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) completion for the 2025-2026 academic year, according to a recent report published by the National College Attainment Network (NCAN). This news underscores strong statewide participation in the federal financial aid process.
Across Massachusetts, 43.2% of the high school class of 2026 have submitted the FAFSA for the 2026-27 academic year to date. While the numbers are comparatively strong compared to the rest of the country, this data underscores a critical challenge: many students have not yet filed the form.
“Completing the FAFSA opens up opportunities for students to access available federal, state, and institutional financial aid,” said Tom Graf, executive director of MEFA. “Students who do not complete the form forfeit their access to this aid and are also significantly less likely to enroll in postsecondary education, even when academically eligible.”
Despite Massachusetts’s high ranking, completion remains uneven among student populations across the Commonwealth.
The Healey-Driscoll Administration has launched a FAFSA Completion Dashboard, designed to provide frequent updates on FAFSA completion across Massachusetts, including completion rates by school, district, and student group. The FAFSA Completion Dashboard will be instrumental in assisting MEFA to help close the completion gaps by informing where additional support for students and families is needed most.
“Too many students leave money and opportunity on the table by not applying for financial aid,” said Commissioner of Higher Education Noe Ortega. “This dashboard makes FAFSA completion data accessible in a way that will advance the college access efforts of our state, schools, and non-profit partners.”
“Completing the FAFSA is an important first step toward college enrollment, and postsecondary education is critical for students to be successful in Massachusetts,” said Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez.
To continue to close the gaps, MEFA is offering several free FAFSA completion resources for students and families, including:
- FAFSA Festival: MEFA will be holding a virtual FAFSA Festival, which will provide an opportunity for students and families to be paired online with a financial aid expert who will be able to assist with any questions or difficulties completing the form. Interested attendees may learn more and register for the event here: mefa.org/webinar/fafsa-festival-2025-26/
- MEFA’s One-On-One Service: Outside of the FAFSA Festival, MEFA offers a one-on-one appointment service for any family seeking guidance on the college financial aid process. To request an appointment, simply complete this form: mefa.org/appointment-request/
- Online Tools and Resources: Families can find additional assistance from MEFA on mefa.org, and from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts at mass.gov/FinancialAid
Educators, counselors, and families are encouraged to use these tools to help increase FAFSA completion rates statewide and ensure that more students can access the college financial aid available.
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About MEFA
MEFA is a state authority, not reliant on state or federal appropriations, established under Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 15C. MEFA’s mission, since its founding in 1982, has been to help Massachusetts students and families access and afford higher education and reach financial goals through education programs, tax-advantaged savings plans, competitive loans, and expert guidance. All of MEFA’s work aligns with the ever-present goal to support the independence, growth, and success of Massachusetts students and families. Visit mefa.org to learn more.
