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Changes to FAFSA and how to apply for Chattanooga students

Whether you’re the parents of college students and high school seniors in the Scenic City or you’re applying for yourself, here is a guide on how to fill out the 2024-25 FAFSA + some changes you can expect to see.

NOOGAtoday | FAFSA Application on a laptop screen

Did you know the FAFSA is required to be eligible for the Tennessee Promise?

Photo by NOOGAtoday

The 2024-25 FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is now open to all Tennesseans. Whether you’re a parent of a returning or new college student or you’re filling it out yourself, we’re here to break down the process.

While typically available in October of each year, the FAFSA got delayed in order to enhance the process with program updates. Changes include:

  • Fewer questions for some families
  • Information on stepparents + spouses not previously considered
  • Elimination of “sibling discount” in calculations, allowing for an estimated 61,000 students from low-income families to be eligible for Pell Grants
  • Ability to share information with up to 20 schools

Tips on applying

  • Create an account with StudentAid.gov (students + contributors like parents and spouses)
  • All parties applying will have to provide their name, date of birth, email + Social Security number
  • Tax information (based on 2022 filings) should transfer from the IRS with consent — be extra prepared by having tax returns, child support, or other financial documents ready

Area school codes

  • UTC | 003529
  • ChattState | 003998
  • Covenant College | 003484
  • Southern Adventist University | 003518
  • Lee University | 003583

Tennessee deadlines

  • Monday, April 15 | State Grant prior-year recipients + Tennessee Promise
  • Sunday, Sept. 1 | Fall term state lottery
  • Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025 | Spring + summer terms state lottery

    Note: All deadlines are at 11:59 p.m. CT + due to the application delay, expect financial packages to arrive later than normal.

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