AUSTIN, Texas — Students across the U.S. often rely on financial aid to afford higher education. On Tuesday, one Central Texas community college announced its plans to extend Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) priority deadlines for its students.
Austin Community College (ACC) posted the update to its website, stating it made the decision "to allow students more time and support to navigate the new" FAFSA format.
Typically, applications for an upcoming school year are due by June 30 on a federal level, but this extension gives students until May 1 to complete their forms.
Any financial aid received – including grants, scholarships, loans and/or work-study assistance – should go towards the 2024-2025 semesters.
RELATED: Students and parents are frustrated by delays in hearing about federal financial aid for college
This year, FAFSA announced its new form, which applies to students attending a college or university from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025.
According to FAFSA's website, the new form should be especially beneficial for more than 7 million individuals who are using the Federal Pell Grant Program, which typically allows low-income students to receive financial assistance without having to pay back the U.S. Department of Education.
Additionally, "Applicants will be able to skip as many as 26 questions, depending on their individual circumstances. Some applicants could answer as few as 18 questions, which could take less than 10 minutes."
This year in Texas, applicants for priority consideration should submit their FAFSA information forms by April 15, though ACC's deadline gives its students even more time.
Last year, the deadline in Texas was in January. In general, it is recommended that students submit applications sooner rather than later.
ACC students can visit the school's financial aid page for additional application assistance.