Problems With New FAFSA Means More Time For MA Students To Apply: State

MASSACHUSETTS — The state Department of Higher Education is moving up the deadline for students to apply for MASSGrant financial aid for college, giving families more leeway during the rollout of a new federal aid application process that has been called a "fisaco."

Students who apply for MASSGrant aid by the new July 1 deadline — previously May 1 — are guaranteed to get it, according to the state. MASSGrant aid is awarded through the FAFSA application to students who qualify for Pell grants. If the deadline remained at May 1, students who encounter trouble with the new federal application could've missed out on aid.

The Better FAFSA form has been plagued by problems since its debut in December, according to reports. One major problem has prevented parents without a social security number from completing the Better FAFSA, even though one isn't required.

"This year’s extended deadline responds to feedback from students, campuses and other partners about this year’s unique challenges with FAFSA completion," Commissioner of Higher Education Noe Ortega said in a news release. "We want students to know there are significant financial aid dollars available for those who qualify, and that persevering through completing the FAFSA is worth it."

The state is still encouraging Massachusetts students to fill out the FAFSA as soon as possible. MASSGrant has been boosted this year by funds from the so-called "millionaire's tax" approved by voters in 2022. There's an additional $62 million for the MASSGrant Plus program this year, which could aid about 25,000 students attending state schools and community colleges.

To find out more about MASSGrant eligibility and how to apply, visit the state Department of Higher Education's website.