Skip to main content
FINANCIAL AID & SCHOLARSHIPS FAS
  1. HOME
  2. Forms & Resources
  3. FAFSA
  4. FAFSA Simplification

FEDERAL FINANCIAL AID UPDATES NEW 2024-25

What is “Better FAFSA, Better Future”?

“Better FAFSA, Better Future” is a federal initiative to implement updates resulting from the FAFSA Simplification Act.

How will this impact me?

The act is intended to make the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) easier for students and their families. In addition these updates will bring changes that may impact how departments across campus operate and use FAFSA data.

While some of these changes have begun, a majority will impact those applying for financial aid starting the 2024-25 academic year. These includes:

  • The 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) availability in December 2023 (vs the annual October 2023 release)
  • A Streamlined application and reduced number of questions
  • A New Financial aid formula: Student Aid Index (SAI):
    • Students may see more differences in their financial aid offer starting 2024-25 from prior years.
  • Initial electronic consent required from students, parents and spouse (as applicable) required for all applications to access and verify tax information directly from the IRS
  • A New Pell Formula

How can I get ready for these changes?

The UC San Diego Financial Aid and Scholarships created this site to assist the campus community navigate through this process. Continue to check back in as we post additional resources and share important updates.

Resources:

What is the FAFSA Simplification Act? | Federal Student Aid

UC San Diego Better FAFSA Better Future Fast Facts Flyer

Webinars:

COMING SOON!