119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 2521
This bill amends federal student aid law to eliminate the "sibling penalty" in how family contributions are calculated for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Currently, when multiple siblings attend college at the same time, the Expected Family Contribution is divided among them, which can actually reduce financial aid eligibility for each child. The bill changes this formula so that families with multiple students in college simultaneously will have their financial assessment divided among all college-enrolled siblings, potentially increasing aid for each student. The change takes effect immediately upon enactment and applies starting with the 2025-2026 academic award year and beyond. This legislation primarily affects families with multiple children pursuing higher education at the same time.