Life of a FAFSA^® filer: 3 moves to maximize your aid (Taylor's version)

The Department of Education just took a page out of Taylor Swift’s playbook with a surprise drop – the FAFSA^® is out EARLY this year, and honestly, we’re here for it.

Whether you’re a die-hard Swiftie or just trying to decode the world of financial aid, this is your moment. Here are three things to know to help you crush your FAFSA^® Era:

Big Reputation: FAFSA^® used to have a Big Reputation–guess what? Not anymore

For years, FAFSA^® had a reputation for being complicated and confusing. But this year? It went from complicated to clean. The Office of Federal Student Aid rolled out a simplified form, and EARLY BTW!! I know…we need to calm down!

What’s new? Several things, like:

• Streamlined form for faster completion
• AI-powered virtual assistant (Aidan) for 24/7 help
• Real-time identity verification with the Social Security Administration
• Simplified contributor invitations—add a parent or spouse by email instead of entering sensitive info

And, ICYMI: Last year, FAFSA^® completion rates dipped from 74% to 71%. With this year’s improvements—and an early launch—we’re hoping to see this year’s numbers break records, like a Taylor album debut week.

FAFSA^® Era Insight: FAFSA^®’s reputation? Reinvented. It’s early, it’s simpler, and it should take roughly 30 minutes to complete—so file that FAFSA^®!

Don’t let missed aid be the regret you remember All Too Well

Nearly three in 10 families skipped the FAFSA^® last year. Why? Misconceptions and confusion. Some thought their income was too high. Others lacked the right information or missed the deadline. That’s like leaving cash on a table and walking away to see if someone else grabs it.

Reality check: Billions of dollars in aid go unclaimed every year. Wait, what? Yep, billions in free money that doesn’t need to be repaid—money that could make college more affordable.

FAFSA^® Era Insight: File your FAFSA^® EARLY, even if you think you don’t qualify. The truth is, most families do. Plus, many scholarships, grants, and state aid programs are often first-come, first-served—so the earlier you file, the better your chances.

The FAFSA^® form feel like a Blank Space staring back at you? Don’t stress—you’re not alone

Feeling overwhelmed? We’ve got some FAFSA^® lifelines! Here are some tips to stay on track:

• Prep like it’s opening night: Think of it like prepping your concert fit--review FAFSA^® requirements and gather documents early so you’re ready to file without delays.
• Set up your FSA ID—it’s your ticket in: Your FSA ID is your concert wristband—you can’t get in without it. Both students and parents need one to access and sign the FAFSA^®. Create it early to avoid last-minute roadblocks.
• Mark your calendar like it’s a ticket drop: The federal deadline is just the start. Many states and schools set earlier priority dates for aid consideration. Missing them = missing out on aid, so set those reminders.
• FAFSA^® isn’t the end game. File, then check out the bonus tracks (AKA more free money): Filing the FAFSA^® opens the door to federal aid, but don’t stop there. Use tools like Scholly Scholarships to find even more free money in scholarships – bonus tracks that help cut college costs.

FAFSA^® Era Insight: Don’t go it alone! FAFSA^® doesn’t have to be your anti-hero. Nearly 60% of families say they needed help completing it last year, so lean on trusted resources to guide you: StudentAid.gov for official guidance, your school’s financial aid office, and Sallie's free FAFSA^® Guide and webinars.

Moral of the story: You’ve got the tips and the tools.

The question is: Are you ready for it?

Put on your headphones, hit play on TS12, and step confidently into your FAFSA^® Era.