FAFSA Simplification



FAFSA Simplification Act

On December 27, 2020, Congress passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act. This included the FAFSA Simplification Act which is a sweeping redesign of the systems and processes used to award federal student aid. The goal of the Simplification Act is to make it easier for students and their families to complete the FAFSA and expand eligibility to more students.

 

Significant Changes to the 2026-2027 FAFSA

The 2026-2027 FAFSA process is unique for several reasons. Due to the revamped application, you can expect the following changes:

  1. Streamlining the FAFSA Form: The revised FAFSA will have fewer questions, less requirements and will be easier to complete.
  1. Expanding Access to Federal Pell Grants: Adjustments in the eligibility criteria for Pell Grant increases the number of students who will qualify.

  2. Changes in Terminology: New terminology added to provide a clearer understanding of its purpose.

  3. A better user experience.

What You Need to Know

 

How to Prepare

Both students and parents must have an FSA ID to complete the FAFSA at www.studentaid.gov .

  • If you have previously filed an FAFSA application, your same FSA ID and password will be used for the new FAFSA.
  • If you do not have an FSA ID and password, apply for one now.

Tax information for the 2026-2027 FAFSA will be for the 2024 year. Make sure that the 2024 federal tax return has been filed (by student and or parent if required to file). 

Check out the Federal Student Aid Estimator Tool to find out how much federal student aid a student may be eligible for starting with the 2026-2027 award year.

 

 

Changes in Terminology

Consent
All contributors (student, parent/guardian, etc.) will be required to provide consent for tax information to be securely downloaded from the IRS to the Department of Education for the FAFSA form. Failure to provide consent will make the student ineligible for FAFSA completion.

Contributor
Refers to anyone who is required to provide information for a student's FAFSA form (student, parent, student spouse, adopted parent or parent's spouse).

FTI (Federal Tax Information)
Both students and parents will need FTI from 2024 to complete the 2026-2027 FAFSA.

Student Aid Index
The SAI will replace the Expected Family Contribution (EFC). This new formula will be used to determine a student's eligibility for federal Pell Grant and other need-based aid.