We’re always looking for
ways to make the process simpler for students applying for federal student aid.
And two big changes to the 2017–18 FAFSA process will do just that:
1. Students can submit the
2017–18 FAFSA earlier. In the past, students had to wait until January 1, but now they
can submit it a full three months earlier on Oct. 1, 2016.
2. They’ll use earlier
income and tax information, too. For the 2017–18 FAFSA, students (and parents)
must report their 2015 income and tax information rather than their 2016 income
and tax information. This makes it easier because most people will have already
filed their 2015 taxes, and they may be able to use the IRS Data Retrieval Tool
to automatically import their tax information into the FAFSA.
Now, you’re probably
thinking, “But wait, what will these changes do to my yearly calendar and
schedule?” If so, don’t worry. We’ve got tons of resources and communication
materials to help make the transition as smooth as possible.
Resources for you:
Fact Sheet for Partners,
Mentors, and Counselors. This PDF
outlines the new changes and answers the questions that partners, mentors and
counselors have about the updates.
Presentation for Partners,
Mentors, and Counselors. This
presentation outlines the new changes to the FAFSA and can be used to provide
updates to colleagues.
2017-18 FAFSA Messaging and
Planning Calendar. This document
provides you with resources to help plan your communications during May and
June. Then, in June, we’ll offer suggested messaging for August 1 until the
FAFSA is available. (Look for an e-mail reminder about it coming in June.)
2017–18 FAFSA Talking
Points. This Word document offers
messaging you can use when discussing the 2017–18 FAFSA changes. We’ve provided
a general message along with variations tailored to different audiences.
FAFSA Announcements Page. This is where you can find the latest news and documents
related to the FAFSA.
Resources to help your students and their parents:
Changes to the FAFSA
Process for 2017–18 Graphic. Feel free
to use this downloadable image to help students and parents understand the
timing and income and tax information requirements for the 2017–18 FAFSA. You
can download it and use it in any of your communications.
Download a
Text-only Version 
(for 508 accessibility)
(for 508 accessibility)
Fact Sheet for Parents and
College Students. This PDF helps
parents and students understand the 2017–18 FAFSA changes and addresses likely
questions.
Presentation for Parents
and College Students. These presentation
slides can be used to share the 2017–18 FAFSA changes with parents and
students.
Download the
Presentation
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