FAFSA Simplification for the 2024/2025 academic year

Federal aid applicants can expect some big changes for the upcoming 2024–2025 academic year when completing the FAFSA. Read on for more information on what you can expect.

Why are these changes happening?

Congress passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act on December 27, 2020 that included the FAFSA Simplification Act. The Act is a complete overhaul of the process and systems used to apply for aid, with the goal of making it much easier for students and families to complete the FAFSA.

What does this mean for you?

The 2024–2025 FAFSA process is going to look a bit different than it was in the past. Below are some of the changes for the upcoming school year:

What’s changing?

2024–2025 FAFSA completion date
- The 2024/2025 FAFSA is currently open at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa.(Opens in a new window) (Opens in a new window)(Opens in a new window)
- Please note that the FAFSA form is available for short periods of time while the Department of Education monitors site performance and updates the form.
The term “EFC” (expected family contribution) is changing
- With the 2024–2025 FAFSA, the term Expected Family Contribution (EFC) will be replaced with the Student Aid Index (SAI); this is a new need analysis formula that we will use when awarding need-based grants and scholarships.
Tax Information Changes
- You’ll notice fewer questions when completing the 2024–2025 FAFSA and a streamlined way to transfer tax information directly from the IRS.
New Terminology
- You’ll notice a few new terms like contributor (anyone who is asked to provide information on the FAFSA, a parent or student spouse for example) and consent (each contributor will need to consent to their information being included on the FAFSA).

What can you expect after you file the FAFSA?

Colleges will get your FAFSA results beginning in late March, and will process it as quickly as possible. If you receive a request for additional information, please submit it as soon as you can, to avoid delays.
Incoming domestic students should also complete the CSS Profile for the 24–25 year as well.