FAFSA Application Undergoes Major Changes

ZANESVILLE, OH – This year’s FAFSA application looks very different compared to prior years.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid usually opens up in October. Due to some changes with the application, this year it opened up on December 31st. 

Vicki Delucas, the Assistant Director of Financial Aid Advising at OUZ, said the biggest change is the amount of questions that need to be answered.

“It went from approximately 108 questions down to around 46 questions,” Delucas said. “This is so much easier for parents and students. Also bringing in your tax information has been simplified tremendously.”

Delucas said it has been a headache for students but you’re not alone.

“There have been a lot of issues, a lot of technical issues and things associated with it,” Delucas said. “Student aid is trying to get straightened up but there are a lot of issues. We’re working with families daily, they’re not in this alone. It’s nationwide and it’s happening everywhere.”

OUZ has extended their priority deadline for the FAFSA until March 1st.

Delucas recommends calling the schools you are interested in attending to see when their deadline for the FAFSA is.