FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) delays have caused added uncertainty during a critical decision-making time in the lives of students and families. 

“The college decision is a big milestone for students and their families and we understand that families need all the information necessary to make a confident choice,” said Melissa Pizzo, associate vice president of financial aid and scholarship services. 

Assurance to students and families

“ASU wants to make it abundantly clear that while timelines are different this year due to FAFSA delays, all students who file their FAFSA and qualify for federal financial aid will be able to access the loans and grants they qualify for in time to enroll in the fall 2024 semester. As such, we encourage students to take their next steps toward enrolling at ASU and bring to our attention any questions or concerns preventing them from doing so.”

Melissa Pizzo
Associate vice president of financial aid and scholarship services

The delays are also affecting the ASU community. Many faculty and staff are experiencing this firsthand as parents of high school students. 

ASU made the following decisions to provide students and families the time they need to make college decisions:  

FAFSA priority submission:
Extended to May 1, 2024.
Previously March 1, originally Jan. 15.

Obama Scholars Program:
FAFSA submission extended to May 1, 2024.
Previously March 1, originally Jan. 15.

Enrollment deposit:
Arizona residents may request to delay payment, applying $300 deposit to fall 2024 bill

Enrollment deposit refund:
Extended to May 31, 2024.
Previously May 1, 2024

Enrollment decision:
ASU remains flexible on a May 1 enrollment decision.
Students can enroll up until the start of the fall 2024 semester.

Recommended next steps: 

• If a student has not yet filed their FAFSA, they are urged to file the FAFSA immediately. ASU can notify a student of their financial aid package and cost of attendance only if they have submitted their FAFSA. Filing now will mitigate future delays once the U.S. Department of Education begins sending FAFSA information to universities.

• Some students may face challenges in completing the FAFSA due to the immigration status of their parents. Students experiencing this challenge should contact their admission representative for personalized assistance.

• Stick with the plan to enroll. If a student has been admitted at ASU, they can join the ASU community. ASU will provide students time to make informed decisions once delays are resolved. Delays may be discouraging, but ASU will help students through this process.

ASU remains true to its Charter commitment that measures itself by whom it includes and it acknowledges that federal financial aid is critically important to many in the community. The university will continue to ensure that all accommodations are made to fulfill this commitment to higher education accessibility. ASU admission representatives are available and ready to assist any student who has questions about their application or needs additional support.