FAFSA Changes for 2024-25

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial part of your college preparation, and can be a necessity when it comes to financing a college education. It’s also the single best way to maximize your funding options for college!

Why the FAFSA Matters 

The FAFSA form has recently been simplified as part of the FAFSA Simplification Act. In today’s blog, we explain the changes to ensure you’re ready to complete the form and help you receive the best financial aid package available to you. 

What Has Changed? 

The biggest change to the 2024-25 FAFSA is the release date. While it typically opens in October, this year the application will be available in December 2023; a specific release date has not yet been determined, but you can be on the lookout for the date. 

Other changes include fewer questions, expanded eligibility for federal student aid, and a more streamlined application process. The changes are intended to make the FAFSA easier to complete.

What Else Should You Know About Completing the FAFSA? 

You should apply to FAFSA as soon as possible after it opens in December. Priority deadlines for students applying early decision, early action, and regular decision can be found on Meredith’s website. When you complete the FAFSA, you and your parents should also be sure to include Meredith’s school code 002945 so that the Office of Financial Assistance can view your data for aid eligibility.

Similar to past years, you and your parents will need an account, or an FSA ID, to complete the FAFSA. The process to sign up for an account is much the same as prior years. Financial aid offers are made after admission to the College and after the FAFSA is submitted.

If you are an international and undocumented applicant, you should submit Meredith’s Institutional Aid Application.

Contact your Meredith financial aid counselor or call (919) 760-8565 if you have questions.