The wait for EA Sports FC 26 is nearly over, but the good news for dedicated fans is that you don’t have to wait until launch day to get started. EA is once again offering an early access period, allowing players to enjoy the game before the worldwide release.

If you want to get ahead in Ultimate Team or simply experience the game first, here’s everything you need to know about the dates, editions, platforms, and benefits of early access.

When is EA Sports FC 26 Early Access?

Players who purchase the Ultimate Edition will be able to start playing on September 19, 2025. This gives them a full week’s head start before the Standard Edition is released on September 26, 2025.

For competitive players and Ultimate Team enthusiasts, that week can be crucial in building a strong squad and taking advantage of the early transfer market.

The staggered release means that Ultimate Edition owners get the chance to begin their journey earlier than the rest of the community. In that first week, you can start building your Ultimate Team, experiment with new tactics, complete Squad Building Challenges, and even begin progressing in competitive modes.

Having this time ahead of the global launch provides a valuable advantage to anyone hoping to stay ahead in online play.

What is the benefit of EA Sports FC 26 Early Access?

Early access does more than simply unlock the game sooner. Those who pre-order the Ultimate Edition by August 26, 2025, will receive a series of exclusive extras.

These include thousands of FC Points to use in Ultimate Team, the Season 1 Premium Pass, an additional Evolution slot, and a special untradeable ICON item. On top of that, players who are still active in FC 25 will also receive unique crossover rewards such as an Evolution item and a high-rated ICON pick.

All of this combines to give Ultimate Edition buyers a significant head start both on and off the pitch.

EA Play members also benefit during this window. On console, a ten-hour trial will be available starting on September 19, giving subscribers a taste of the game even if they have not bought the Ultimate Edition. Meanwhile, EA Play Pro subscribers on PC will gain full access to the game on the same day, in line with Ultimate Edition players.

Which platforms will have EA Sports FC 26 Early Access?

The good news is that early access is available across all major platforms.

Whether you are on PlayStation 5 or PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, or even the new Switch 2 and Amazon Luna, you will be able to take advantage of the early release date. The only requirement is that you own the Ultimate Edition.