The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2025-26 academic year is now available, providing an earlier opportunity for students planning to attend college in Fall 2025, Spring 2026, or Summer 2026. Western Nevada College (WNC) has begun assisting students with their FAFSA forms to help them prepare for their educational plans between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026.
“We are glad to hear that the rollout of the new FAFSA is going smoother than last year and our students will have their federal financial aid determined in a timely fashion to reduce concerns about how to pay for college,” stated WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe. He emphasized that the Financial Aid Office is ready to assist students with any questions or issues they may encounter. Additionally, WNC offers other funding options for qualifying students.
Income should not deter students from submitting their financial aid applications. Completing the FAFSA is necessary not only for federal financial aid but also for eligibility for state grants, scholarships, work-study funds, and loans.
“The earlier than expected release has been a great thing and the college is excited to help students begin planning for the 2025-2026 academic year!” said JW Lazzari, WNC Executive Director of Student Services.
Originally scheduled to open on December 1 by the U.S. Department of Education, future FAFSA forms will be available starting October 1 each year. The delay follows a previous challenging rollout that affected student funding and college plans.
To complete the form, students must create an FSA ID and provide personal information such as a parent or spouse’s name, date of birth, social security number, email address, and possibly income and asset details. Most applicants complete it within 20 minutes.
Students are reminded that they need to submit a FAFSA form every year they attend college. The application can be accessed at wnc.edu/financial using WNC’s federal school code: 013896. Filing promptly is advised.
For assistance from a WNC Financial Aid Office representative, call 775-445-3264 or email finaid1@wnc.edu. For more information about enrolling at WNC, contact 775-445-3277 or visit wnc.edu/starthere.
