diff --git a/lms/envs/common.py b/lms/envs/common.py
index 473025cee4..0bb43f2147 100644
--- a/lms/envs/common.py
+++ b/lms/envs/common.py
@@ -3269,7 +3269,7 @@ CCX_MAX_STUDENTS_ALLOWED = 200
 
 # Maximum and minimum length of answers, in characters, for the
 # financial assistance form
-FINANCIAL_ASSISTANCE_MIN_LENGTH = 800
+FINANCIAL_ASSISTANCE_MIN_LENGTH = 250
 FINANCIAL_ASSISTANCE_MAX_LENGTH = 2500
 
 #### Registration form extension. ####