HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) -- Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) is giving prospective students more time to review financial aid offers and to make their decision to enroll in colleges or universities.

This is due to delays occurring across the country due to the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid form, also known as FAFSA.

All 10 universities within the state system are using rolling admissions to review applications continuously or are extending the deadline to at least May 15 for new students to commit to either a college or university. The traditional deadline was on May 1.

Additionally, the universities have committed to making sure flexibility is available to help students through the process.

“PASSHE universities are doing everything they can to give students and families more time to consider financial aid offers,” said PASSHE Chancellor Dan Greenstein. “We know that most of our students are from low- and middle-income families, and they rely on financial aid to attend their PASSHE university. Going to college and earning a degree or credential is life-changing, and those decisions should not be rushed. This extension gives students the time and flexibility to consider their financial aid options and make informed decisions.”

The U.S. Department of Education has redone its FAFSA form this year, to make the process shorter and simpler for students. However, the rollout has caused delays of five to six months.

Because of this, many colleges and universities around the country will not receive the financial data until mid-March. Many higher education institutions, including PASSHE, use the data to determine the amount of financial aid to offer students. 

“I encourage all high school seniors and any other potential students to complete the new, streamlined FAFSA form as soon as possible,” said Greenstein. “Submitting the form is the vital first step to accessing grants, scholarships, and other free aid that many Pennsylvania students need and deserve.”

Currently, universities are informing proactive students about the extended deadlines and will provide financial aid offers as soon as FAFSA data has been made available.