Every state has its own deadline for when you must submit the FAFSA® to be considered for state government aid. You can find those deadlines here.
In general, the earliest state deadlines are March 1. However, many states award financial aid on a first-come, first-served basis, until funds are depleted. So it is best to apply as close as possible to the FAFSA® opening date of the preceding academic year when the FAFSA® opens.
For example, if you’re applying for aid to attend college in 2026-2027, then that FAFSA® application opens by October 1, 2025.
In other words, the sooner you apply, the better!