Short answer: UNC System institutions and community colleges: June 1, 2027. Private institutions: As soon as possible after Oct. 1, 2026. The federal deadline is June 30, 2028, but state money is limited, so file well before the state date.
North Carolina state aid deadlines for 2027-28
| Deadline | Applies to | Details |
|---|---|---|
| June 1, 2027 | UNC System institutions and community colleges | For priority consideration, submit your FAFSA by June 1, 2027. Aid is awarded until all funds run out. |
| As soon as possible after Oct. 1, 2026 | Private institutions | For priority consideration at private institutions, submit your FAFSA as soon as possible after October 1, 2026. |
| June 30, 2028 | Federal deadline | 11:59 p.m. Central time. Corrections due by September 12, 2028. |
State programs
- North Carolina state aid (see CFNC.org)
What to know
- Aid is awarded until funds run out, so earlier is better even before June 1.
- Colleges can set their own, earlier priority dates. Check each school's financial aid office.
Sources
Checked November 2, 2026 against the official pages above. Deadlines can change, so confirm on the official site before you file.
See FAFSA deadlines in other states (Texas, California, Florida, New York, Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan), or read how to pay for college with the FAFSA, Pell Grants and state aid.