On Jan. 1, 2024, FAFSA will reopen with new features and tools for students who are applying to college. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an application that allows people in low income families or other financial situations to get financial aid for their college tuition.

“Students who may not qualify for financial aid can still apply, they may still be eligible to earn some commissions,” Ms. Maryellen Beck said.

With the new update, six major changes will come to the form including new student aid calculations, and maximum grant, which is the greatest amount of legal aid granted to a person. It will also have fewer questions, a new way to create your ID, a new consent form and students can now list up to 20 schools to earn financial aid. Usually, the FAFSA comes out in early December, so the push back leaves students with less time to fill out their applications.

The deadline for students to submit their deposit for the school they are attending is May 1st. This leaves only four months for students to get as much tuition assistance as possible. It also takes time away from colleges to give out scholarships because they aren’t aware of how much money is being given for student aid. Students can also personally reach out to colleges and ask for grants or scholarships.

“Colleges are really responsive and do everything they can to help students out when it comes to

tuition assistance,” Beck said.

The FAFSA strives to give students the easiest way to get the most money to pay for their future college education. It aims to help low income and first time students who are applying to college.