Mercer Times

Current and prospective college students in New Jersey can now receive free one-on-one support to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) before the September 15, 2024 deadline for state financial aid. The Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) is providing these consultations online through August to help more students access available financial aid.

Federal changes to the FAFSA application and platform have posed challenges for many students and families during the 2024-2025 cycle. In response, the U.S. Department of Education announced $50 million in funding to enhance support for FAFSA completion at state and local levels. HESAA received $100,000 from this fund to provide personalized online assistance through contracted financial aid experts.

“Through these additional free FAFSA consultations, we are offering another avenue of support to the students and families who still need to complete a financial aid application for the upcoming school year,” said Executive Director Margo Chaly, Esq. “As the State financial aid deadline of September 15 quickly approaches, HESAA is here to help New Jersey students complete their financial aid application over the summer to ensure as many residents as possible can access the generous financial aid our state offers. We are grateful for this opportunity to further expand our FAFSA supports on behalf of New Jersey families.”

Students can schedule consultations that include assistance with errors or additional information requests from the U.S. Department of Education. These private sessions will supplement other ongoing free FAFSA support provided by HESAA, such as in-person workshops and online webinars in English and Spanish.

Completing a financial aid application is essential for determining eligibility for federal or state grants and scholarships. This initiative will continue until August 25, 2024, or until funds run out. Students needing assistance are encouraged to sign up promptly ahead of the September 15 deadline.