FAFSA Simplification Act

The FAFSA 2024–25 Is Changing

The FAFSA form for 24–25 became available in late December 2023. As a part of the launch of a brand new application, the site will be unavailable periodically for maintenance.Families should begin completing their 24–25FAFSA form. We are aware of situations where families may experience difficulties with submitting their information. If you experience issues with completing your FAFSA, please check out the federal貹.

On January 30, 2024, the Department of Education informed schools that they will not provide FAFSA data to institutions until the first half of March 2024. Initially, the Department of Education had indicated the information would be available January 2024. This federal processing delay may impact some previously stated award timelines.Additionally, Department of Education continues to update institutions of data errors that are continuously being worked on during spring/summer 2024.

Based on the current state of the FAFSA data and information available as of April 2024, we anticipate the will be small delays in our ability to provide financial aid awards for the 24–25 academic year. For more details on how your specific population may be impacted, please review the “What does this mean for you?” section.

Why is it changing?

The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021:

Future Act

  • Allows the Department of Education to automatically obtain federal tax information from the IRS for students, parents, and other contributors (such as a spouse or stepparent).
  • Requires consent from students and other contributors separately.

FAFSA Simplification Act

  • Introduces significant changes to the FAFSA application process, including changes to the FAFSA form.
  • Changes in how students complete the application.
  • Changes in eligibility calculation.

The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022:

FAFSA Simplification Technical Corrections Act

  • Extended FAFSA simplification timeline.
  • Updated language associated with Cost of Attendance (COA)
  • Provided additional flexibility for assisting students with unusual circumstances.
  • Modified the terms and conditions for students that qualify for Pell Grant funds based upon meeting special conditions currently associated with the Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant and the Children of Fallen Heroes Grant.

What is changing?

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What does this mean for you?

The changes to FAFSA will have a varied impact on Boston College student populations. Below is information about the potential impact(s) and what to expect. These sections will be updated as new information is provided.

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FAFSA Simplication Frequently Asked Questions

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