As we prepare for all the changes in 2024-25, we also must remember that though we have gotten used to the FAFSA being available on Oct 1st, this may not be the case with all the changes (FAFSA Simplification additions & CPS being sunset to bring on another processing system). It was alluded to during FSA’s Virtual Conference, but it is a good reminder for us all as we prepare. It was also mentioned in a NASFAA webinar and recently on a NASFAA Ask Regs Q. The deadline for the FAFSA to be available by law is not until 1/1 of the FAFSA starting year (24-25 is 1/1/2024). However, the goal is to make it available earlier if possible.
Here are some things to watch for as these dates approach:
In 2023 we should see two Requests for Comment on the 2024-2025 FAFSA Form (last year was 2/24/2022 & 6/1/2022). FSA is required to provide a comment period before releasing the new FAFSA. Federal Register announcements can be viewed on FSA Partner Connect Here: FSA Partner Connect Library Federal Registers
By June of the previous year, we began seeing the Technical References associated with the New FAFSA. In July, we traditionally see the CPS Test System Guide, ISIR Guide, SAR Comment Codes, and Text Guides (Remember, these will now be released in a consolidated guide). A consolidated sample guide was provided in December of 2022, the announcement referenced in the consolidated guide link above. The only dates provided in this sample reference broad release dates that state Spring 2023, Summer 2023, and Fall 2023, but as these are released, we may also get an indication of where the process is aligning.
As the earlier timeline is quickly approaching, this may give us some insight into how things are running, but the best guess is to be on the lookout for the comment periods for the new FAFSA and the publication of those technical references.
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