Better FAFSA

Better FAFSA

Updated April 11, 2024

The 2024-2025 FAFSA has launched!

State Financial Aid Deadline Extension Approved! We have great news to announce that the state priority deadline for Cal Grant and Middle Class Scholarship has been extended from April 2, 2024 to May 2, 2024. Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1887 on March 25, 2024 to codify this extension. As a result, students who submit a 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by May 2, 2024, will be considered on time for Cal Grant and Middle Class Scholarship consideration. If you need assistance with completing your application we will be hosting an application event May 1^st, 2024 . The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) is also hosting free Cash for College webinars scheduled throughout April.

Important Note for California Non-SSN Contributor
We know that there are continued barriers for students who have non-SSN Contributors. CSAC continues to advocate for solutions to these issues. The California Non-SSN Contributor Follow Up email list will provide subscribers with up-to-date information regarding the FAFSA process for parents and spouses without social security numbers. Use the link above or scan the QR code to subscribe.

The Department of education will initiate pauses for site maintenance and to make updates as needed to create a better FAFSA experience for students and families.

During these pauses, users who are already online will be able to complete their work, but other users may not be able to begin or resume work on their 24-25 application. Applicants may experience a waiting room feature that helps control website volume to ensure optimal application performance.

Students who go to the website during a temporary pause should check back at a later time to complete the application.

The FAFSA Simplification Act was enacted into law as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act in 2021 with the goal of streamlining the process through which students apply for financial aid. These changes are being implemented for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) that students will use to apply for financial aid for the 2024-25 academic year beginning in December 31^st 2023. The FAFSA Simplification Act also significantly amended the formula that informs how students qualify for the federal Pell Grant. Below are resources to help you understand these changes.

2024–25 FAFSA FAQs

Watch Full Playlist on Youtube

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form gives you access to the largest source of financial aid—federal student aid. Check out this playlist to find answers to common questions to help you get ready for the 2024–25 FAFSA form. For more answers about the FAFSA process, visit StudentAid.gov.