FAFSA Changes Roll Out Slowly

As promised, the updated Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) opened on December 30, albeit with some limitations.

Update 2/15/24: The FAFSA form is now available to students and families, who should submit their applications as soon they are able. Although FAFSA information is typically transferred to schools when the form is completed, the Department of Education will not provide data to colleges until mid-March at the earliest. This will delay financial aid offers from all colleges and universities, including Meredith. Our Financial Aid office is ready to process students’ information as soon as it is received and provide their financial aid awards as quickly as possible — most likely in late March or early April.

See additional updates about the 2024-25 FAFSA.

The 2024-25 FAFSA form was initially made available periodically as part of what is described as a “soft launch.” 

Although the soft launch was somewhat confusing for applicants, the federal aid website assures students and families they will have plenty of time to complete the form. Doing so is a critical step for students and families as it allows them to apply for financial aid to help pay for college. Those who completed the form during the soft launch will not have to resubmit their application at a later date; their information will be saved.

In addition to the delayed application date, the Department of Education anticipates significant processing delays.

Once FAFSA data is released to Meredith, the College’s Financial Aid Office will provide financial aid offers to students and families as soon as possible.

Please contact the Office of Financial Assistance with any questions or concerns at (919) 760-8565 or finaid@meredith.edu. We are here to help!