Meredith Urges Students to Complete the FAFSA

The rollout of the 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) has been challenging this year, to say the least. As a result, Director of Financial Assistance Kevin Michaelsen said some students, both current and incoming, still need to complete their FAFSA.

“We know that this has been a difficult year for students and families,” said Michaelsen. “The fact remains that completing your FAFSA is the only way to access all of the financial aid you’re eligible to receive. That’s why it’s so critical for every student to complete their FAFSA, every year.”

The application’s rollout was bumpy, but Michaelsen said he is hearing from students and families that the form is shorter than in previous years and faster to complete, which was one of the primary goals of the FAFSA Simplification Act.

If students have difficulties completing their application, Michaelsen encourages them to contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center. It’s open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Although many financial aid offers for new students have been sent, some who have submitted their FAFSA are still waiting for their offer packages because of errors in the data and other difficulties. Michaelsen said his team is working through these issues.

“We understand that receiving your financial aid offer is a critical part of deciding where you can attend college,” he said. “Our team remains committed to sending financial aid offers to students and families as soon as possible.”

Deposit Deadline is Flexible

Meredith had previously extended the Enrollment Deposit Deadline to May 15 to give incoming students and families additional time to make their decision. The usual deadline is May 1, known as National Decision Day.

However, given the extraordinary circumstances related to the FAFSA, Meredith College will continue to accept deposits past the May 15 deadline.

Students who want to attend Meredith but are waiting on offers from the College or other colleges or universities should reach out to their admissions counselors.