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.