Big FAFSA Changes Are Confusing Parents—Oklahoma News Interview Breaks Down What to Do Next

What the New FAFSA Changes Mean for Families; and How to Maximize Aid Anyway
By Dr. Shaan Patel, CEO & Founder of Prep Expert

The financial aid system in the U.S. is going through another round of major changes; and if you’re feeling confused, overwhelmed, or behind, you’re not alone. The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) has been overhauled again, and this year’s rollout is hitting families hard, especially those with multiple students in college or relying on state grants.

As the founder of Prep Expert and someone who works with thousands of students each year, I want to walk you through what’s actually changing; and how families can still get the aid they need for college.

Let’s break down what’s happening, what’s new, and most importantly; what you can do about it.

What’s Changed with FAFSA This Year?

There are a few key changes to the FAFSA for the 2024–25 academic year; and they have big consequences for families filling it out:

1. EFC is Now Called the Student Aid Index (SAI)
   The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is no longer used. It’s been replaced by the Student Aid Index (SAI). While the name is different, the purpose is largely the same: colleges use it to determine how much financial aid you’re eligible for. A lower SAI means you may qualify for more aid.
2. No More Discount for Families With Multiple Kids in College
   This is one of the biggest gut punches for middle-class families. Under the old system, having two or more students in college at the same time reduced your EFC; and helped unlock more aid. That’s gone. Now, each student is assessed individually with no built-in break for families juggling multiple tuition bills.
3. State and Institutional Aid Is Still First Come, First Served
   Even though the federal FAFSA deadline is June 30, many states and colleges run out of money months earlier. Submitting the FAFSA late might technically still make you eligible for Pell Grants, but you’ll likely miss out on state-based grants, institutional scholarships, and work-study programs.

What’s Not Changing (Despite the Headlines)

1. The Pell Grant Is Still Fully Funded
   There’s been a lot of concern about Department of Education (DOE) budget cuts; but here’s the good news: Pell Grant funding is guaranteed by Congress. While there are serious delays due to DOE staffing issues, the funds themselves are still there. Students who qualify will still receive them; it may just take longer.
2. You Can Still List Up to 20 Schools on FAFSA
   The FAFSA still allows students to send their information to up to 20 colleges in a single submission. If you need to apply to more than 20, you can submit the FAFSA again with a new set of schools.

What Delays Mean for Students (and What to Do About Them)

This year, FAFSA processing delays have been significant. While the Department of Education typically takes 2–3 weeks to return a student’s aid report, families have reported waiting months.

If it’s been more than a month since you submitted your FAFSA, don’t just wait; contact the financial aid offices of your selected schools directly. Many schools are working with students manually due to these delays.

How to Maximize Your Financial Aid in 2025

If you want the most aid possible, especially with the new FAFSA changes, here’s my advice:

1. Apply as early as possible.
Even if the federal deadline is June 30, state and institutional money can run out in March or even February. Submit as soon as the FAFSA opens; and stay ahead of next year’s opening window.

2. Look beyond FAFSA.
Some state and institutional grants require separate applications. Platforms like Fastweb, BigFuture, and ScholarshipOwl aggregate billions of dollars in external scholarships.

3. Apply for local scholarships.
Local community foundations, rotary clubs, banks, and even grocery stores often sponsor regional awards. These scholarships are usually less competitive and can help cover books, fees, or room and board.

4. Appeal your aid package.
Especially if you’re impacted by the removal of the sibling discount, reach out directly to colleges and request a professional judgment review. Explain your financial situation and submit documentation. Many schools are open to reconsidering awards; especially if enrolment numbers are down.

5. Stay organized and keep records.
With delays and system overhauls, it’s more important than ever to keep copies of your submissions, emails from FAFSA, and all communication with schools. If your aid doesn’t arrive on time, this paper trail will help you advocate for yourself.

What Families Need to Watch Moving Forward

This won’t be the last time FAFSA changes. Between proposed Department of Education restructures, policy shifts on student loans, and state-level budget pressures, the aid landscape is in flux. I recommend families:

• Bookmark StudentAid.gov for the latest updates.
• Follow your state’s education department website for grant deadlines.
• Build a multi-year plan to cover costs; don’t rely on FAFSA alone.
• Teach your students basic financial literacy so they understand how interest, repayment, and scholarships really work.

Final Thoughts

I know this process can be stressful; especially with the added uncertainty of system glitches and policy changes. But here’s the truth:

Financial aid is still out there. It’s just harder to access if you wait, give up, or rely only on the federal system.

At Prep Expert, we’ve helped thousands of students not only boost their test scores but win millions in scholarships. But getting free money for college isn’t just about SAT scores; it’s about timing, research, and advocacy.

And for families navigating this year’s FAFSA mess, a little persistence can go a long way.

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Dr. Shaan Patel is a Shark Tank winner, bestselling author, and founder of Prep Expert, an education company that has helped over 100,000 students improve test scores, win scholarships, and get into top universities. He scored a perfect SAT and is passionate about empowering students and families to take control of their college journey.