2024-2025 FAFSA Resources
At MCPHS, we are committed to being your go-to resource for navigating the 2024-2025 FAFSA application process. Explore our affordability appointments, workshops, and video resources to make your financial aid journey seamless.
2024-2025 FAFSA Adjusted Timeline
As part of the FAFSA Simplification process, the U.S. Department of Education announced in January 2024 that colleges and universities would not receive completed FAFSA information for financial aid filers until mid-March. The 2024/2025 FAFSA is simpler for aid applicants to complete and takes less time. The adjusted timeline for this year's cycle does mean colleges and universities won't be able to deliver financial aid package results to students until late March.
MCPHS is dedicated to being your resource in navigating through challenges related to the adjusted timeline and the new FAFSA process. Our financial aid advisors are here to provide pertinent information and expertise to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and explore alternative financial aid options. Our professional staff can walk you through estimated awards, which should be helpful in early financial planning for the 2024/2025 academic year. We offer affordability appointments, workshops, and video resources to demystify all the challenges related to the new FAFSA process and empower you to make informed decisions. Importantly, we understand that each student's situation is unique, and our personalized support will help you navigate your specific circumstances.
Guidelines for navigating through the FAFSA adjusted timeline:
- Complete Your FAFSA As Early As Possible at StudentAid.gov
- This will ensure that MCPHS receives your FAFSA information and determines your financial aid eligibility as early as possible.
- Watch video tutorials and use help icons and the "Aiden" virtual assistant available throughout the FAFSA process.
- Contact sfs@mcphs.edu or schedule an affordability appointment.
- Research and apply for outside scholarships, external organizations, and professional associations related to your field of study.
- Investigate the Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loans, visit studentaid.gov
- View and compare private student loans MCPHS students have used in recent years at www.elmselect.com
- Create a budget plan to manage your expenses while awaiting FAFSA processing.
- Prioritize essential expenses such as tuition, textbooks, and housing.
- Consider part-time employment or work-study opportunities available on campus to supplement your income and cover expenses.
- Deposited students are encouraged to check their MCPHS email regularly for important communications from the Student Financial Services, such as requests for additional documentation or updates on financial aid statuses.
- Respond promptly to any requests or inquiries to expedite the processing of your financial aid application.
- Take advantage of financial literacy workshops, webinars, and resources MCPHS offers to enhance your understanding of the financial aid process.
- Learn about budgeting, student loan repayment options, and strategies for minimizing debt to empower yourself financially throughout your academic journey.
- Remember that the FAFSA adjusted timeline is a temporary setback, and you are not alone in facing financial challenges.
MCPHS is committed to supporting our students through every step of their academic and financial journey. While the FAFSA adjusted timeline may present temporary challenges, we encourage you to utilize the resources and guidance provided to navigate through this period successfully. Schedule a 1-on-1 appointment with one of our financial aid counselors for further information.
Introducing the 2024–25 FAFSA Updates
The FAFSA Simplification Act is a significant overhaul of the processes and systems used to award federal student aid, starting with the 2024-25 award year. It aims to make applying for and receiving financial aid more straightforward and accessible for students and families.
The FAFSA Simplification Act is expected to benefit students and families in several ways:
- Easier application process: The simpler FAFSA form and streamlined verification process will make applying for aid less time-consuming and confusing.
- More accurate need assessment: The new SAI formula should provide a more accurate picture of a student's financial need.
- Increased access to aid: More students will qualify for Pell Grants and other forms of federal aid.
While the full impact of the FAFSA Simplification Act is yet to be seen, it represents a significant step towards making federal student aid more accessible and efficient for all students.
Here's what you need to know:
Launch Date: The 2024–25 FAFSA form was made available on December 31, 2023. Remember, the federal deadline for submission is June 30, 2025. MCPHS' priority-specific deadline for FAFSA completion is April 1.
New Term – "Contributor": Anyone providing information on your FAFSA form will be considered a contributor. This includes you and may include your spouse, parents (biological or adoptive), or your parent's spouse. Other family members like grandparents or siblings won't be contributors, even if they have supported you financially.
Consent Requirement: Both you and your contributors must provide consent for the IRS to transfer your tax information into the FAFSA form. Failure to provide consent will make you ineligible for federal student aid.
StudentAid.gov Account: Accessing the FAFSA form will require a StudentAid.gov account (FSA ID). Each contributor, including yourself, needs to create their own account to sign and submit the form. Contributors without a social security number can also create accounts; visit www.StudentAid.gov for detailed information.
Financial Aid Formula Change: The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is replaced by the Student Aid Index (SAI) in the 2024–25 award year. Your SAI determines your financial aid eligibility based on the information provided in your FAFSA form.
Expanded Pell Grant Eligibility: More students may now qualify for Federal Pell Grants. While the SAI influences eligibility, factors like family size and federal poverty guidelines also play a role.
FAFSA Submission Summary: After submission, you'll receive a FAFSA Submission Summary instead of the Student Aid Report. This summary outlines your eligibility for federal student aid and any Pell Grant awards you may receive.