FAFSA Simplification
The new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) process can be intimidating and ½ûÂþÌìÌà is here to help! The 2025-2026 FAFSA will be available December 1, 2024. We encourage all students to submit an application as soon as possible once the FAFSA is available, and no later than our preferential filing deadline of March 15, 2025.
What Has Changed?
The was enacted into law as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, and amended by the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022. The Act further amends the Higher Education Act of 1965, as amended (HEA), and impacts the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®), according to the Department of Education. The new FAFSA Simplification process is aimed to offer a more streamlined application process and overall better user experience.
- Streamlined Application Process: There will be fewer questions and an easier process for transferring tax information directly from the IRS and there is expanded eligibility for federal student aid and reduced barriers for certain student populations.
- New Formula: Expected Family Contribution (EFC) will be replaced with the Student Aid Index (SAI). This is a new need analysis formula that ½ûÂþÌìÌà will use when awarding need-based grants and scholarships.
- New Terminology: New terms like contributor (anyone who is asked to provide information on the FAFSA, e.g., a family member or spouse) and consentÌý(each contributor will need to consent to their information being included on the FAFSA).
Continue to check this FAFSA Simplification page as we share updates to the new FAFSA Simplification process.
Apply for Financial Aid
We understand investing in a quality education is an important factor during your college search. ½ûÂþÌìÌà offers a comprehensive need-based financial aid and merit scholarship program for incoming and current students. View our step-by-step instruction process for you to navigate.
What Action is Required?
½ûÂþÌìÌÃÌý to get started on your profile using School Code 003262 for ½ûÂþÌìÌÃ. To prepare, Ìýnow and be ready to submit your FAFSA when it opens. Each student and will need their own FSA ID. Please note that the 2025-2026 FAFSA will require 2023 tax information.
When Will I Receive My Financial Aid Offer?
FAFSA data started being released to colleges in mid-March. ½ûÂþÌìÌà will notify students through their status portal once applications have been received. Financial aid offers are expected to be sent in the mail within two days of receiving the application.
Contact Us
We understand this process is new and that is why we are here to help answer your questions at any time!
Office of Financial Aid
1 Alpha Drive
Elizabethtown, PA 17022
Phone: (717) 361-1404
Fax: (717) 361-1514
finaid@etown.edu