Saving up for college doesn’t have to be so intimidating, and there are resources to help you ensure payment is organized and applied to your tuition and fees. We’ve all heard those words that make up the abbreviation: the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Taking time to complete this is an investment in your future, and support on the economic front is worthwhile for a quality education.
Our experts at Financial Aid know that all too well, on standby and ready to leap at a moment’s notice to guide uncertain individuals on what steps to take next. They also impart relevant information regarding deadlines for upcoming semesters, counseling you to take action for your 2024–2025 FAFSA submission and noting changes in procedure to guarantee a smooth, expedited ordeal. Acting on your academic responsibilities will ease your stress today, rewarding punctuality with favorable habits you can wield in your life and schooling.
FAFSA Changes Announced for 2024
The beginning of 2024 is an opportunity for clean slates and motivating resolutions. Our ambitions throughout the prospective year come into focus, and we reflect on what we’ve accomplished, driving our passions to fulfill them. So, when the FAFSA opened on Jan. 1, you can expect to see some changes.
Charlie Cryderman, Financial Aid Coordinator, has all the details regarding the notable modifications to how FAFSA functions and counsels students in all facets of budgetary restraints, document preparation, and referrals to service offices.
“The most significant change is the replacement of Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) with the Student Aid Index (SAI). It’s the formula used to determine a student’s eligibility, designed to increase their likelihood; however, in some instances, they may have a higher SAI than their EFC on a previous FAFSA,” Cryderman said.
“Students should also be aware that anyone required to provide information on their FAFSA is now considered a contributor. Examples could be a parent, spouse, or grandparent. They must have a StudentAid.gov account and consent,” continued Cryderman.
Having all the particulars explained to you is advantageous before requesting money from the federal government. You can comprehend the situation clearly and be deliberate about registering. It’s not as daunting as you might think, and in the future, acquiring a successful, enjoyable career will make it all worthwhile. Encourage your peers to tackle the FAFSA today and lead with the ultimate convincing fact: the new version is much shorter than its predecessor. Brief and easy are attributes most can get behind, and while our days are precious, setting aside time to compile your record is a productive use of it.
Financial Planning and Discipline Leads to Freedom
Of course, get involved in events throughout the semester and become even more acquainted with how the system runs. A recently revived venture called Financial Literacy and Money Education by Students (FLAMES) involves student-led mentorship, enriching counterparts with the skills to make wise fiscal decisions. Did you know February is Financial Aid Awareness Month? Don’t miss out on workshops that elevate your economic awareness on Feb. 10, 17, and 24. Reserve your spot and learn what a breeze these files are with the proper direction and patience.
Safeguarding your standing at TMCC is essential to earning your degree, and it’s a satisfying feeling when you’ve given effort to make it so. Thankfully, there are multiple streams for funds to travel through, such as grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. Exploring every monetary gift is a smart way to circulate your name out there, and odds are you’ll have a chance to inherit some assistance.
TMCC welcomes all walks of life and is attentive to each student’s unique journey through adversity. You uplift our campus culture, and through accessible and inclusive practices, we’ll make your college experience less cumbersome and more engaging. The goodwill is here for you; now go out and seize it!
“We are fortunate to serve a diverse student population at TMCC. I get to meet so many people with amazing stories. It’s vital to our staff that we support their success. Filling out the FAFSA can be immensely intimidating, so there is no better feeling than helping somebody finish it and realize they are on track to attend TMCC,” Cryderman said.
For more information, please visit the Financial Aid website or call 775-673-7072.