PLAINVIEW, TX — In response to the recent U.S. Department of Education announcement regarding delays in the delivery of 2024-2025 FAFSA information to institutions, Wayland Baptist University is urging students to take proactive steps to ensure they are prepared for the financial aid process.
“Students should put themselves in the best position possible while they wait to hear from us,” said Christy Miller, Executive Director Financial Aid.
According to the announcement made Jan. 30, the delivery of Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) information to colleges and universities across the nation has been postponed until the last half of March. The department normally sends that information in October soon after applications open. However, the department didn’t begin accepting applications for 2024-2025 until Dec. 31. The delay is attributed to the rollout of a new, simplified application system that has caused unforeseen challenges in the processing timeline.
The simplified application “will open those doors for hundreds of thousands of additional students who may have been daunted by the costs and complexity of the system to pursue higher education” according to a recent communication to universities from Dr. Miguel Cardona, U.S. Secretary of Education. Miller agrees that the “long overdue changes to FAFSA will raise the bar for access and affordability in higher education.” U.S. Department of Education hopes changes will expand access to higher education funding for more than 600,000 additional students nationally who may not have been eligible before.
Miller emphasized the importance of students positioning themselves for success during the waiting period.
“While we understand the frustration caused by the delays, it is crucial for students to take proactive measures to ensure they are ready for the financial aid process,” she said.
The financial aid director recommends students take the following steps:
Miller said that despite the challenges, Wayland remains committed to supporting students throughout the financial aid process and to ensuring all eligible students receive the assistance they need to pursue their educational goals.
For more information and updates on financial aid at Wayland, visit the university’s website — wbu.edu — or contact the WBU Office of Financial Aid.
“We are here to help student navigate the process and are willing to help in anyway we can,” Miller said.
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