The 2024-25 award year brought sweeping changes to financial aid, marking the most significant updates in over 20 years. While these changes, driven by the Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA) and aimed at FAFSA simplification, were a step forward in making education more accessible, their rollout was not without challenges. Delays, errors, and bottlenecks disrupted timelines for students and schools alike, emphasizing the importance of preparedness. At Campus Ivy, we’ve learned from these challenges and are ahead of the curve for the 2025-26 award year, ensuring a seamless experience for our clients.

The 2024-25 Financial Aid Overhaul

The centerpiece of the 2024-25 updates was FAFSA simplification, which aimed to reduce the complexity and number of questions on the form. This reform focused on making the application process more user-friendly and equitable, especially for first-generation and low-income students.

However, implementing these changes revealed significant hurdles:

• Delays in FAFSA Availability: The Department of Education faced delays in launching the simplified FAFSA, which postponed critical timelines for students to apply for scholarships and grants.
• Impact on State and Institutional Aid: Even though many states expanded their deadlines, there was still a reduction in FAFSA completions. The delays left students at a disadvantage, with some missing out on aid entirely.
• Challenges for Schools: Without timely access to FAFSA data, universities struggled to issue financial aid award letters, leaving students uncertain about how to finance their education.

Why Preparedness Matters

For schools and their financial aid offices, these challenges underscored the critical need for proactive planning and adaptable systems. Students and families depend on clear, timely communication and reliable processes to make informed decisions about their education.

At Campus Ivy, we’ve prioritized staying ahead of regulatory changes to support schools in providing the best possible experience for their students.

Looking Ahead to 2025-26
The lessons from 2024-25 have informed our approach for 2025-26. By already adapting our systems and processes to meet the December 1 deadline for FAFSA adjustments, Campus Ivy is ensuring that schools can hit the ground running. Here’s how we’re prepared:

• Timely Updates: We continuously monitor Department of Education announcements to keep our clients informed and ready to act.
• Streamlined Processes: Our software is equipped to handle the new FAFSA requirements, minimizing delays and errors.
• Dedicated Support: Our team is prepared to assist schools in navigating any additional changes, providing the tools and resources they need to succeed.

Partnering for Success

Preparedness isn’t just about meeting deadlines—it’s about ensuring that students have access to the financial resources they need to succeed. By staying ahead of the curve, Campus Ivy is helping schools create a positive experience for students and families, even amid changing regulations.

As we move into the 2025-26 award year, Campus Ivy is proud to lead the way in readiness, empowering schools to navigate these changes confidently. Together, we’re not just meeting deadlines—we’re shaping a better future for students.

Ready to ensure your school is prepared for 2025-26 and beyond?

Contact us to learn how Campus Ivy can simplify your financial aid processes, keep you compliant, and support students on their journeys to success.