What is the FAFSA?
The FAFSA, officially known as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is the form that families fill out to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study funds for college students. It is administered by the U.S. Department of Education, which provides more than $150 billion in student aid each year. Your eligibility for federal grants (which don’t have to be repaid) and federal loans (which do) will generally be based on your financial need, as determined by the information you supply on your FAFSA.
The FAFSA Simplification Act represents a significant overhaul of the processes and systems used to award federal student aid starting with the 2024–25 award year. This includes the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form, need analysis, and many policies and procedures for schools that participate in federal student aid programs.
The law will also affect every state that uses FAFSA data to award state grant aid and every school that participates in the federal student aid programs.
FAFSA Completion Video
PHEAA’s offers some fast and easy tips for completing the FAFSA like a pro. Click here to view.
Additional videos focus on MySmartBorrowing, federal and state aid, and scholarships.