For those still seeing this issue, Federal Student Aid just posted on their social media that they're aware of the problem and expect to have it resolved within 48 hours. They specifically stated: "We are aware that some FAFSA applicants are seeing incorrect 'correction submitted' messages when logging into their accounts. This is a display issue only and is not affecting your application data or processing times." So official confirmation that it's just a UI bug!

As someone who just went through this exact same panic this morning, I'm so relieved to see this thread! My FAFSA showed the same "correction submitted today" message when I literally just logged in to check my status. I was terrified I had accidentally messed something up since I'm already dealing with verification requirements. Thanks everyone for confirming it's just a system glitch - especially the financial aid administrator who explained that schools aren't receiving new data. This whole FAFSA cycle has been such a rollercoaster of technical issues, but at least this one seems harmless!

Just to follow up with more specific advice: when schools ask for different things, it's because they're approaching your situation through different institutional policies. All of them are working toward the same goal - accurately assessing your current financial situation - but their processes differ. Instead of making multiple FAFSA corrections, I recommend: 1. Return to your original FAFSA (either separated or married, whichever matches your status on the day you first submitted) 2. Create a standard documentation package (separation explanation, current income, living situation proof) 3. Submit this package to all schools proactively 4. Include a cover letter explaining the FAFSA confusion you've experienced This approach puts you ahead of the process rather than constantly reacting to different school requests.

I went through something similar last year when my divorce was finalized right after I submitted my FAFSA. What helped me was creating a timeline document that showed exactly when my marital status changed and what income/tax information I was using for which time periods. I included this with every communication to financial aid offices along with copies of relevant legal documents. Most schools were actually pretty understanding once they could see the full picture laid out clearly. The key is being proactive and consistent with your documentation across all schools rather than waiting for them to ask for different things. Good luck - I know how overwhelming this process can be!

One more important thing to consider when comparing these schools: look at the types of aid they're offering, not just the total amounts. • Grants and scholarships = free money (never repaid) • Work-study = earned by working part-time on campus • Federal loans = must be repaid, but have better terms • Private loans = typically higher interest rates Some schools look more affordable initially but offer mostly loans, while others might have a higher "net cost" but provide more grants/scholarships. This makes a huge difference in what you'll actually pay over time.

btw another thing i learned the hard way - they usually estimate like $1000-1500 for books but i spent way less using chegg, amazon rentals, pdf versions online etc. same with the "personal expenses" - totally depends on your own spending habits

After reading through this thread, I'd suggest creating a detailed budget for your college expenses before deciding. List all your costs (tuition, fees, books, housing, food, etc.) and subtract any grants, scholarships, and money from savings/family. If there's still a gap after the subsidized loan, then consider the unsubsidized loan, but only for the amount you actually need. Remember that federal loans also have loan fees (about 1%) deducted from the disbursement amount, so you receive slightly less than what you borrow.

Great thread with lots of solid advice! As a newcomer here, I wanted to add that another factor to consider is your state's loan forgiveness programs. Some states offer loan repayment assistance for nurses who commit to working in underserved areas for a certain number of years. Since you mentioned nursing as your major, it might be worth researching what's available in your state - this could potentially help offset some of that unsubsidized loan debt down the road if you do decide to take it. The HRSA website has a good database of these programs. Just another angle to consider as you make your decision!

Thank you everyone for the helpful advice! I've talked with my son and he's going to e-file his 2022 taxes tomorrow. He's also going to call the financial aid office to explain the situation and ask about a possible extension for the priority deadline. It sounds like trying to submit without filing would create even bigger headaches down the road. I really appreciate all the insights!

As someone who went through a similar situation with my nephew last year, I just want to emphasize how important it is to get ahead of this now. We made the mistake of waiting until after the priority deadline to sort out his tax issues, and he ended up losing out on about $3,000 in institutional grants that were awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. One thing I'd add - if your son's 2022 income was really low (under $10,000), he might actually qualify for simplified needs test or automatic zero EFC benefits once he files properly. This could work in his favor for aid calculations. The key is just getting that return filed ASAP so the FAFSA reflects his actual financial situation rather than estimates that will trigger verification. Good luck to both of you - law school financing is stressful enough without tax complications!