FAFSA Simplification Act
Let Us Help You Make Sense of The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
The FASFA Simplification Act makes significant changes to the way federal student aid eligibility is determined. The Academy is here to help you navigate the changes. We have equipped a specialized team of Student Financial Services Representatives with an in-depth knowledge of the updated system to guide you through the new application process.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Student-friendly updated application
- As of 2024-2025, FAFSA will feature fewer questions and retrieves tax information using a direct data exchange from the IRS instead of the IRS Data Retrieval Tool.
New terminology and information
- The Expected Family Contribution (EFC), has been replaced with a new formula and will now be referred to as the Student Aid Index (SAI).
- The FAFSA is introducing the new term “contributor,” which refers to anyone who is required to provide information on a student’s FAFSA form, including the student, the student’s spouse, a biological or adopted parent, or the parent’s spouse. Note: Being a contributor does not imply responsibility for the student’s college costs.
Expanding Pell Grant eligibility
- The adjustments to the new Student Aid Index (SAI) calculation will expand Federal Pell Grant eligibility to more students.
Pro Tips for the FAFSA Form
To fill out the FAFSA Form more efficiently:
- Create a StudentAid.gov (formerly an FSA ID) account before filling out the FAFSA form.
- Gather the required documents ahead of time.
- Have your contributor (student) information easily accessible.
- Complete your (the student’s) section of the form first.
- Make sure to read all questions and definitions carefully.
- Don’t forget to review, sign, and submit the form.
Read more about tips for preparing to fill out the FAFSA form
Helpful Resources at the Academy:
