FAFSA 2024-2025 Launches with Major Changes Amid Redesign

New version allows for more college listings and languages, but delays financial aid offers

The new version of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2024-2025 school year has been launched on a limited basis as the U.S. Department of Education works on a redesign to make it easier to apply.
The relaunch brings major changes such as fewer questions, the ability to list more colleges, and availability in more languages.
However, the update means students will get their financial aid offers later than usual.
The new FAFSA will replace the Expected Family Contribution with a different formula called the Student Aid Index that will help determine the amount that each student can receive in financial aid.
In the 2024-2025 award year, more students will be eligible to receive a federal Pell Grant. According to the Education Department, an estimated 610,000 new students will be eligible for a grant.