Southeast Missouri State University is offering personalized support sessions to help students and their families navigate the changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). As part of its commitment to student success, SEMO is providing one-on-one virtual appointments with financial aid experts, ensuring students have the resources needed to complete this crucial step in securing funding for higher education.
What is FAFSA
The FAFSA is a form students and their families fill out to apply for financial aid for college. It's important because it determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs, as well as state and school-specific financial aid. Completing the FAFSA can make college more affordable and accessible by helping students access money to pay for their education.
What’s Changed
The revised FAFSA form has undergone significant changes, streamlining the process for families to complete. What once was a daunting 108-question form has been reduced to just 46 questions, taking minutes to complete.
“The changes make the financial aid application process more user-friendly and less time-consuming, ultimately allowing students to focus more on their education rather than navigating a lengthy form,” said SEMO Director of Student Financial Services Dr. Matthew Kearney. “The importance of the FAFSA can’t be overstated. Even though it’s a simpler form, families may still have questions, so we want to be here to support them as they begin the process.”
Kearney said in addition to taking less time to complete, he’s heard from some families previously ineligible for aid that they now qualify.
“Regardless of the outcome in previous years, we are encouraging students to fill out the new FAFSA,” said Kearney. “We strongly encourage Missouri families to complete the FAFSA by Feb. 1. This is the state’s priority deadline and ensures students are considered for the Access Missouri Grant and other state-funded financial aid programs.”
Kearney says filing early also increases the chances of receiving financial aid, as some funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Virtual Appointments
SEMO’s Student Financial Services Operations Coordinator Carly Blagg and Student Services Specialist Anessa Scalf are providing students and families with personalized assistance. FAFSA Assistance Appointments are available now through January 31, 2025, giving students plenty of time to seek help before the priority deadline of February 1, 2025. Students can schedule their virtual appointment by visiting fafsahelp.semoadmissions.org.
“Being here for families through the FAFSA process is just another example of SEMO providing students with the tools and guidance they need to achieve their college and career goals,” said Kearney.
Kearney encourages students to schedule an appointment as early as possible to ensure they get the assistance they need.