A Better FAFSA Means A Better Future
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Simplification Act represents the first significant overhaul of the processes and systems used to award federal student aid in more than 40 years. Starting with the 2024–25 year, families and students will experience a seamless filing experience, fewer barriers and expanded student eligibility for federal aid.
What's New?
New Date
The 2024-2025 FAFSA opens on Dec. 31, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. This is a temporary change. In future years, the FAFSA will open Oct. 1.
App State's priority filing date is Feb. 1, 2024. Submit the FAFSA by this date to ensure you are considered for all aid and scholarship opportunities for which you are eligible.
New Form
The new form has fewer questions, fewer requirements and allows the IRS to import tax information directly into the FAFSA.
New Terms
The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) will now be referred to as the Student Aid Index (SAI). This is the number used to determine how much financial aid the student is eligible to receive.
The new FAFSA introduces the term contributor, which refers to student spouses and parents who contribute information on a student's FAFSA form. It does not mean they will contribute to the student's educational expenses.
New Eligibility
Federal Pell Grant eligibility is expanded to more students and will link eligibility to family size and the federal poverty level.
What Can I Do Now?
The best way to be prepared is to get prepared. Here are some steps you can take now.
- Make sure you and your contributors have an FSA ID. Create one on the Federal Student Aid website.
- Gather your 2022 federal tax documents.
- Meet with one of App State's financial aid counselors.
- Review the FAFSA Estimator, an online tool to help estimate your 2024-25 federal aid award.
Get Started
If you are interested in attending App State or currently attend and want to apply for financial aid, learn more about the steps and how to complete the FAFSA.
Questions? Schedule an appointment with a counselor.