Kentucky students can apply for FAFSA financial help on Oct. 1

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A big change is coming for Kentucky college students who need financial help.

Students can begin applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on Saturday.

Previously, students couldn't apply until Jan. 1.

That means Saturday is also the first day to submit applications for the first-come, first-serve grants and scholarships provided by the Kentucky Lottery. Lottery officials recommend filing the FAFSA as soon as possible.

"Get in early, so you know that you'll be one of the early applicants to go through there," said Chip Polston, spokesman for the Kentucky Lottery. "If you wait until that Jan. 1 date, there's a chance that all those funds could be gone."

Students can file the FAFSA using 2015 tax information.

To apply for the FAFSA, CLICK HERE.