If you're filing a tax return, “the government already has your financial information,” she added. “It's really hard to understand the rationale.”
Here are some questions and answers about FAFSA and college financial aid.
Which states have universal FAFSA policies?
In addition to Louisiana, which continues the policy for this year's graduates, at least six other states have graduation-related policies, according to Reach Network: Illinois, Alabama, Texas, California, Indiana, and New Hampshire. It is said that it has set certain requirements. Four states – Connecticut, Nebraska, New Jersey and Oklahoma – plan to require it starting in 2025, and Kansas plans to start requiring it in 2028.
In New York state, the budget bill just approved by the Legislature requires school districts to either require all students to fill out federal or state financial aid forms, or “I know there is aid available, but I don't want to use it.'' The plan includes requiring people to sign a waiver stating that they have chosen not to pursue a claim. ” according to a news release from Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office. (School districts will enforce this rule; if a student doesn't fill out an application or opts out, he or she can still graduate.) The policy is aimed at the class of 2025. It takes effect in May.
What will happen to the financial aid package for this year's high school graduates?
FAFSA update failure leaves many students and families still waiting for official financial aid offers even as the traditional May 1 deadline to commit to college approaches . A survey of members of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators conducted this month found that fewer than half of colleges have made aid offers to some or all of their accepted students, and 44% have not started preparing offers at all. It was suggested that there were no. Some schools are extending commitment deadlines to give students time to consider offers.
How much does it cost to attend college?
The confusion surrounding the FAFSA comes amid growing concerns about student loans and the cost of attending college. In the 2023-24 academic year, the average published price, or “sticker” price for tuition, fees, housing and meals at a private four-year college was $56,190, compared to $56,190 for students at public universities in the state. It was about $24,000. According to the College Board. Published annual costs at some private universities will soon reach $100,000, but most students don't pay the full amount because of financial aid and discounts.
