January 09, 2024

VINCENNES, Ind. - The arrival of the new FAFSA form heralds an opportunity for individuals to access vital federal aid for their college education. The 2024-25 form introduces a simplified and user-friendly approach, streamlining the application process for students seeking financial aid.

Applying for federal aid by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid is an investment in one’s education, and it opens doors to crucial financial support, including grants and loans, that can significantly help with college expenses.

Students looking for the best value and lowest cost in higher education in Indiana should look no further than Vincennes University. VU strives to keep its in-state tuition below the value of a full Pell Grant.

The redesigned 2024–25 FAFSA form will help 610,000 new students from low-income backgrounds receive Federal Pell Grants, according to the U.S. Department of Education. It will also help 1.5 million more students receive the maximum Pell Grant – bringing the total number of students eligible for the maximum Pell Grant amount to more than 5.2 million.

Nearly 90 percent of first-time, full-time VU students receive financial assistance through grants, scholarships, or both. VU extends in-state tuition to Illinois, Kentucky, Ohio, and Michigan residents. This development offers residents of these states an approximate 50 percent reduction in tuition costs, exemplifying VU’s mission of making high-quality education accessible and affordable to all. 

The best step to unlocking pathways to affordable education and potential financial aid opportunities is to file a FAFSA for the 2024-25 academic year. The FAFSA is typically released in October. The 2024-25 FAFSA form rolled out online with a “soft launch” on Dec. 30, 2023.

According to the Department of Education, the FAFSA is available periodically during their soft launch as they monitor site performance and form functionality. Students wanting to submit applications now should monitor the studentaid.gov website to check availability. 

VU is ready to assist

The VU Financial Aid Office offers assistance Monday - Friday during its regular hours, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (ET). One-on-one Zoom appointments with VU financial aid representatives also provide help with filing the FAFSA and answer questions regarding financial aid at VU.  Financial aid experts will also be available on College Goal Sunday to provide free FAFSA filing help at the Vincennes Campus and Jasper Campus on Feb. 25, 2024, 2-4 p.m. (ET).

VU Financial Aid Director Stan Werne said, “With clearer instructions and reduced complexity, the updated FAFSA aims to make accessing financial aid more straightforward, ensuring that students can focus on their education with greater ease. At Vincennes University, we are committed to supporting the educational journey of all students. If someone has questions about the new FAFSA form or any financial aid needs, our dedicated team is here to assist every step of the way. Student success is our priority, and we’re just a call, visit, or email away from helping students and families navigate the financial aid process.”

College is a great investment in your future

A college degree not only equips individuals with specialized knowledge and skills but expands possibilities and increases career prospects. The wage gap between college graduates and high school graduates is at a record high, according to this report. The return on investment for a college degree is substantial - worth upwards of $800,000 or more in increased earnings over a lifetime. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York concludes that a college degree pays off with a 75 percent premium, or more than $30,000 per year in earnings, compared to those with a high school diploma.

Filing a FAFSA is a strategic investment that ensures individuals have the financial resources needed to pursue higher education, unlocking opportunities for students to access vital federal aid.

We’re here to help

To learn more about key changes, see VU information about FAFSA simplification. If you have financial aid questions, do not hesitate to reach out to the Vincennes University Financial Aid Office. Contact them via email at FA@VINU.EDU or give them a call at 812-888-4361 Monday - Friday during its regular hours, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (ET). 

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