WHAT YOU NEED TO FILE THE FAFSA

The FAFSA that needs to be filed depends on when you are planning to enroll. Attending school in the 2025-26 academic year? File the 2025-26 FAFSA. Looking forward to enrolling for the 2026-27 academic year? File the 2026-27 FAFSA that will become available on October 1, 2025. We have a Get Ready checklist for both years.
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FREE COLLEGE IS HERE!

Recent high school graduates residing in Maine qualify for a Free College Scholarship at any of the seven community colleges.
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Free College is Here

IT’S TRUE! High school graduates (or students who earned the equivalent of a high school diploma, like a GED or HiSET) who are Maine residents can attend Maine community colleges tuition-free. Visit freecommunitycollegemaine.com for more information.

For graduates in 2023, 2024, and 2025, 100% of tuition and mandatory fees will be covered, after federal and state grant aid has been applied. For graduates in 2026 and beyond, 100% of tuition will be covered, after federal and state grant aid has been applied. Students qualifying for maximum federal and state grant aid will have remaining grant funds available to help cover fees, books, supplies, and other related educational expenses.

Filing your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is key to free community college. Ready to file? Go to StudentAid.gov.

File the FAFSA at StudentAid.gov

If you need help or have questions, we’ve got answers. Unsure of your plans? You can still file a FAFSA to keep your options open.

FAME’s FAFSA help is here and always free.

1. Use FAME’s online help.

For information, a handy checklist, short explainer videos, and FAQs to help you get ready to file, go to FAMEmaine.com/FAFSA.

2. Attend a free Virtual FAFSA Help Session.

While these sessions are free, registration is required. To learn more about the sessions and register for one that works for you, visit our Events page.

3. Contact a FAME expert.

Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:30 PM
• Phone: 1-800-228-3734; TTY 207-626-2717
• Email: Education@FAMEmaine.com
• Schedule a free one-to-one education affordability coaching appointment.

Unable to file the FAFSA?

If you’re unable to file the FAFSA due to citizenship status or other reasons, you’re still eligible for free community college. Contact the community college you wish to attend, and work with an on-campus advisor.