NSHE Supports Students Through Rollout of 2024 FAFSA

Western Nevada College News

The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) is committed to supporting students through the rollout of the new 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). As part of the nationwide FAFSA Week of Action, taking place from April 15 to 19, NSHE and its institutions are dedicated to ensuring students have the resources and guidance needed to complete their applications for federal aid.

The 2024-25 FAFSA was completely overhauled. According to the U.S. Department of Education, the Better FAFSA brings with it improvements aimed at simplifying the financial aid process for students and families. These improvements are expected to benefit many students, with over 5,000 more Nevada students expected to become eligible for the Pell Grant for the first time and an additional 10,000 Nevada students projected to be newly eligible for the maximum amount of Pell Grant.

As is often seen with changes and rollouts, there have been challenges with the U.S. Department of Education's rollout of the 2024-25 FAFSA. In response, NSHE and its institutions have been actively working to support students by implementing the following measures:

• Expanded Outreach: NSHE colleges and universities have intensified FAFSA outreach efforts, hosting workshops both on campuses and at various community locations statewide, frequently in collaboration with high schools and community partners.
• Deadline Flexibilities: NSHE colleges and universities are providing flexibility including extending priority FAFSA submission deadlines to provide students with additional time to complete the application. As a system-wide measure, NSHE has pushed back the Nevada Promise Scholarship deadline for FAFSA submission from March 1 to May 1, 2024, to accommodate students facing challenges in meeting earlier deadlines.
• Partnerships with K12: The Nevada System of Higher Education partners with Nevada school districts and individual educational institutions to securely share student-level FAFSA submission information, enabling targeted support to complete the FAFSA.
• Continued Monitoring and Support: NSHE remains vigilant in monitoring technical and processing issues related to the FAFSA rollout. Staff at NSHE institutions provide support and assistance to students as needed, ensuring they can navigate the application process with confidence.

The FAFSA is a crucial gateway for students to access financial aid that can make higher education more accessible and affordable. It serves as the foundation for determining eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. Completing the FAFSA is essential for students and families to unlock the financial resources necessary to pursue their educational aspirations.

"Ensuring every student has access to financial aid is of vital importance to the Nevada System of Higher Education and our mission," said Chancellor Patricia Charlton. "We are proud to support students through the FAFSA process and beyond, empowering them to achieve their educational dreams."

To learn more about the new FAFSA, visit these links from the U.S. Department of Education:

• Pro Tips for the 2024-2025 FAFSA Form
• FAFSA "How To" Videos

For more information and assistance, phone WNC's Financial Aid Office at 775-445-3264 or email [email protected].