Thomas Fuller|SOPA Images|LightRocket via Getty Images

In this illustration, the FAFSA logo is displayed on a smartphone screen.

In a surprise announcement last week, the Department of Education opened the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA, a week ahead of the planned Oct. 1 start date, allowing students and families to get their financial aid applications done on time. For millions of families who rely on financial aid to make college possible, this is welcome news, especially after the process was marred by difficulties in recent years.

Completing the FAFSA is one of the strongest predictors of whether a student enrolls in college. When more students finish the form, more students pursue degrees, careers and futures once thought out-of-reach. High school seniors who complete the FAFSA are 84% more likely to enroll in post-secondary education immediately after high school. For students in the lowest socioeconomic quintile, that likelihood jumps to 127%. Every barrier removed and every step simplified makes it likelier that students will secure the aid that makes college possible.

When Congress directed the Department of Education to simplify the FAFSA five years ago, the vision was clear: Make the form less confusing, less time-consuming and less intimidating. But the road to a reimagined FAFSA – and the reengineering of its outdated and complicated technology – were rough. The launch of the new FAFSA two years ago was riddled with delays and........

© U.S.News