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Renewal Application Process
("Pre-Filled" FAFSA Data)
Beginning with the 2008-09 processing cycle, the renewal application process has been redefined in terms of language used with students and the Web options and labels that display. The concept of a renewal application process continues to exist but a separate Renewal FAFSA on the Web option is no longer offered. The use of the term "renewal" has been discontinued on Federal Student Aid (FSA) Web sites and other resources geared to a student audience. The term "renewal application" will continue to be used in publications and communication to FAAs.

When a renewal-eligible student accesses FAFSA on the Web, that student will be asked if the application should be "pre-filled" with data from the previous year. If the student agrees, the application will automatically fill with certain data from the prior-year application. Students can apply using their PIN to complete, sign and submit a 2008-09 FAFSA.

The renewal FAFSA process is a tremendous time-saver for students because most of the information they provided on their prior-year application is carried forward and displayed on FAFSA for the new academic year. The student must answer income and asset questions and be sure to update any information that is '"pre-filled" if it has changed from the previous year.

New in 2008-09

There are several changes to the 2008-09 renewal application process in addition to the discontinuation of a separate Renewal FAFSA on the Web.

  • A Renewal Reminder in Spanish is sent if a Spanish application or correction was used in the prior year.
  • Students who submitted a FAFSA4caster record in the prior year (age 16 or older as of January 1, 2008) will receive a Renewal Reminder with customized text and will be eligible to use a pre-filled FAFSA on the Web application in 2008-09.
  • Students who have a fraudulent loan reported by NSLDS will not be eligible for the renewal application process
  • There are new and revised rollover values.

More detailed information about the changes to the renewal application process can be found in the 2008-09 Summary of Changes for the Application Processing System.

2008-09 Important Dates

November, 2007

Postsecondary schools are reminded to have students update mailing or e-mail addresses with the CPS.

January 1, 2008

FAFSA on the Web available online.

January 11, 2008

The last day to make corrections for students to be eligible for the Renewal Reminder.

January 16 - February 11, 2007

Renewal Reminder Notices are sent via e-mail or letters to renewal-eligible students who have not yet filed a 2008-09 FAFSA.

© 2003-2007 Illinois Student Assistance Commission