What is the FAFSA Simplification Act?
Changes and improvements are coming to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) application in the 2024-2025 aid year.
The FAFSA Simplification Act, enacted into law as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 and amended by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2022, makes many important changes to the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). Significant changes are being made to impact need analysis, as well as many policies and procedures for schools that participate in the Title IV programs. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) has set forth a phased implementation approach, with full implementation by July 1, 2024.
Changes set forth in the FAFSA Simplification Act that are scheduled to begin with the 2024-2025 academic year will take time to properly implement. Consequently, the 2024-2025 FAFSA is expected to be available in December 2023 (rather than in October). ISAC anticipates availability of the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid for the 2024-2025 academic year to coincide with the launch of the 2024-2025 FAFSA.
The Financial Aid Process
Students should complete the application process by the following deadlines: