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Last year the Department of Education implemented several changes to the FAFSA form. Following are some guidelines and a description of those changes.
Reduced Questions
The FAFSA now has fewer questions, reducing complexity for students and families.
More College Choices
Students can now list up to 20 colleges on their FAFSA, doubling the previous limit.
Multiple Languages
The FAFSA is available in the 11 most common languages spoken by English learner students and parents, enhancing accessibility.
Simplified Tax Info
All FAFSA applicants must use the IRS Direct Data Exchange (DDX) to share tax information, streamlining the process.
Contributor Definition
A "contributor" is someone required to provide information on a student's form, ensuring accurate data.
Contributor Responsibilities
Contributors must provide information on the FAFSA, but it doesn't imply financial responsibility for the student's education.
Parent Support
The FAFSA now considers the parent who has provided the most financial support in the last 12 months.
Parent Wizard
A tool that helps students identify the correct contributor if they're unsure.
Contributor Changes
Once a contributor is selected, it can't be changed for the full aid year.
Need Analysis Update
The formula no longer considers the number of family members in college, impacting some students.
SAI Replaces EFC
Aid is determined using the Student Aid Index (SAI) instead of the Expected Family Contribution (EFC).
Pell Grant Changes
Pell Grant awards will vary based on SAI, with a minimum SAI of -1500.
Alternate EFCs Eliminated
Alternate EFCs for non-9-month enrollment periods are eliminated.
Reporting Assets
Family farms and small businesses must be reported as assets, affecting financial calculations.
Marital Status
Separated students should not indicate they are married on the FAFSA.
Continued Status
Homeless youth, foster care, and court wards will have their status carried over to successive aid years.