Delay in Rollout of Updated FAFSA Application

SOURCE www.npr.org
The Department of Education has delayed the rollout of the updated FAFSA application for the 2025-2026 cycle to address issues from the previous cycle.

Key Points

  • FAFSA application for 2025-2026 cycle delayed for testing among limited group before public release
  • Previous cycle's delays led to issues with processing financial aid offers and deficit in available aid
  • Department of Education aims to improve FAFSA experience based on feedback from stakeholders

Pros

  • Department of Education is working to improve the FAFSA experience for students and families
  • Testing the new application among a limited set of students and institutions may help identify and address any potential issues before wider release

Cons

  • Delays in receiving financial aid offers may impact students' planning and decisions for the upcoming academic year
  • The $1.8 billion deficit in available aid due to delayed technology updates highlights the importance of timely and accurate processing