By: Robert Heil, FAS Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

The Challenge:

Statistics from the National College Attainment Network (NCAN) indicate FAFSA completions for the class of 2024 are currently down 24.3% compared to this same time last year.  This poses serious risk to enrollments this fall.  Significant timing delays, a flawed rollout, inaccurate data files, and application fatigue are but a few of the contributing factors that led us to this point.  May 1, National Decision Day, felt largely uneventful as most students were not in a position to make college decisions without financial aid offers.

The FAFSA delays and challenges have been frustrating for campuses and students alike. Financial aid professionals are the unsung heroes of higher education right now, working tirelessly to do everything they can to get accurate financial aid offers to students. Still, many students are fatigued from the process and fewer students have completed the FAFSA as the statistics bear out.  Much is at stake and students deserve the opportunity to step into their future.

 

A Solution:

Our mission at FAS compels us to do something about the challenge. This is why we are partnering with 3 Enrollment Marketing, Rutgers University, Florida State University, and ZeeMee to host FAFSA Now, a nationwide online event, June 6, designed to guide students and parents through completing the FAFSA and demystify the myth that it is too late to apply.  During this event, students and parents can:

• Follow step-by-step guidance on completing the FAFSA from experts at FAS.
• Learn from admissions leaders on navigating late college applications and optimizing their college choices.
• Engage in breakout rooms and live Q&A sessions.

Most importantly, colleges and universities can make this event available to their prospective and admitted students at no cost.  With the fall semester fast approaching, this event is a prime opportunity for students and families to get real-time assistance and expert advice, ensuring they can move past the hurdles and toward their future.

 

Challenges Deserve Solutions:

Our team believes challenges deserve solutions.  It’s a guiding principle at FAS.  With over 1,600 years of combined industry experience, we don’t stare at problems; we head toward problems. 

 

Event Registration and Resources:

Event resources and promotional kits are available on the FAS Resource Library at  https://www.financialaidservices.org/research-and-resource/

Colleges and universities are welcome to use the email templates, social media graphics, and event registration link when promoting FAFSA Now to students.

Students and their families can register for the event at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_HOE8xYkZS3KEEMXX33s97g#/registration

 

About FAS:

Trusted by over 1,800 colleges and universities and fortified by over 1,600 years of industry experience, the mission of FAS is to empower colleges and universities to strengthen financial operations, optimize enrollment and enhance the student experience.

Want to learn more about what FAS can do for your institution? Reach out here to start a conversation and learn more about our services. You can watch the explainer videos of our services or reach out for a 20-minute quick consultation.

Financial Aid Services (FAS) has served higher education for over 30 years. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, FAS provides consulting, staffing, processing, and assessment services to assist institutions with improving operational efficiency, student satisfaction, and regulatory compliance in financial aid and student business services. FAS’ accomplished team averages 26 years of experience and has a combined 1,600 years of higher education experience. With clients in 49 states, FAS has successfully served over 1,800 institutions nationwide. The Company’s extensive experience combined with industry-leading expertise and focus on superior client outcomes, enables FAS to deliver lasting results to its clients and the students they serve. Visit www.FinancialAidServices.org for more information.