The completion rates for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) have decreased significantly this year due to technical glitches, with high school seniors facing challenges in accessing financial aid for college. Despite efforts to assist students, completion rates are still lower than last year, impacting where students enroll in college. This has been especially difficult for students from low-income or minority backgrounds, who already face barriers to higher education. Many students had to make decisions about college enrollment without a complete financial picture, leading to uncertainty and potential debt.
One student, Adjovi Golo, had to choose a college without her FAFSA processed and ended up at DePaul University instead of her preferred choice, Spelman College. The FAFSA process has also impacted current college students, with delays in aid packages affecting scholarships and financial support.
Efforts are being made to help students navigate the complex financial aid system, but challenges remain, especially for students with immigrant parents or limited resources. Some students are opting for more affordable community colleges as they wait for aid, while counselors urge students to plan ahead and apply for scholarships early. As the next FAFSA application cycle approaches, it is crucial for students to start early and not wait until the last minute to secure financial aid for college. The impact of the FAFSA issues on college enrollment and retention remains to be seen, but it is clear that students are facing obstacles in accessing the financial support they need for higher education.
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