Stay focused

 The FAFSA Simplification Act passed on Dec. 27, 2020 as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 made important changes to the Higher Education Act of 1965 (HEA) and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®), including the restoration of Pell Grant for students incarcerated in federal or state penal institutions and students who are subject to involuntary commitments. The law ties Pell Grant Eligibility to enrollment in an eligible prison education program (PEP). The provisions of the FAFSA Simplification Act related to incarcerated students, starting July 1, 2023.