The USED Federal Student Aid office (FSA) announced that the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), now referred to as the Better FAFSA, will open by December 31. Below are a few highlights of the Better FAFSA:
- The number of application questions will be reduced significantly.
- Students will be able to list up to 20 colleges on the application, up from ten.
- All applicants will need an FSA ID to input information into the new application.
- The new application is role-based, so each individual will only be able to see questions assigned based on role.
- There is a new process for individuals without Social Security numbers to obtain an FSA ID.
- New policies will streamline assistance for students in foster care or experiencing homelessness.
Action items to support students and families in navigating this new financial aid process:
- Support students and families in creating FSA IDs.
- Elevate other financial aid forms students may need to complete such as CSS Profile and other institutional forms.
- Start identifying any special or unusual circumstances.
- Encourage scholarship applications.
- Encourage students to complete the FAFSA in January 2024.
Additional Resources:
- Federal Student Aid Office: FAFSA Simplification.
- Federal Student Aid Office: FSA Outreach YouTube Videos.
- National College Attainment Network: Better FAFSA.
- uAspire: Financial Aid Resources.
For more information, contact Bambi Sell, GEAR UP Program Manager, at 307-777-8979 or bambi.sell@wyo.gov.
