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Earlier in February, the U.S. Department of Education announced several major updates regarding the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) process, including modifications to the current form, improvements for the 2025-26 cycle, and the development …
Refugee and asylee students face unique challenges in accessing higher education, but financial aid administrators can play a crucial role in supporting them. These students are eligible for federal financial aid, yet navigating the documentation and verificat …
In our last blog we discussed the importance of reviewing your draft CDR data and using the eCDR Appeals application to challenge incorrect data. This process is time consuming and at a time of year when your office is likely busy reading applications for enro …
For most people, February means appearances by groundhogs and cupids; however, when you are responsible for your institution’s CDR it means it’s time to review new draft data. If you haven’t already, you will shortly receive the draft CDR data for the Federal …
In a significant step toward increasing accessibility and simplifying the FAFSA® process for applicants and contributors without a Social Security Number (SSN), the U.S. Department of Education (ED) announced a series of updates and changes to the application …
On December 12, 2024, the U.S. Department of Education (Department) issued an Electronic Announcement (GENERAL-24-143) outlining additional flexibilities for institutions handling late disbursements for students who filed paper FAFSA forms for the 2024-25 awar …
In Salman Khan’s recent book Brave New Words, the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology is given a central focus when used in collaboration with human engagement, combating common pessimistic outlooks on the disruptive power of AI. Th …
Recently, the Federal Student Aid (FSA) office released an Electronic Announcement detailing critical updates and reminders regarding the Change in Ownership (CIO) process for institutions participating in Title IV, HEA programs. This guidance underscores docu …
Financial aid representatives play a critical role in ensuring that all students actively enrolled in their institutions, regardless of race, identity, status, or demographics, have access to the resources and support needed to be successful. During times of p …
As the financial aid landscape evolves, so too must the professionals who guide students and families through this pivotal process. Each New Year presents an excellent opportunity for financial aid managers to set resolutions that prioritize the professional d …
On Thursday, October 31st, The U.S. Department of Education (DOE) issued a reminder for institutions on the longstanding requirement to disclose all related party transactions in audited financial statements. This electronic announcement highlights recent AICP …
This year, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) has enhanced the FAFSA experience, following the feedback and concerns expressed from last year’s rollout, as well as the initial Beta Testing that occurred in October 2024. As we continue to assess the effects …
As outlined in the Federal Register (89 FR 4284), all corrections and adjustments to the Fiscal Operations Report (FISAP) for 2023–24 and the Application to Participate for 2025–26 must be finalized by 11:59 p.m. ET on December 13, 2024. To that end, financial …
As the holiday season approaches, financial aid offices can leverage this time to create an environment that is inclusive, joyful, and meaningful for students and staff from diverse backgrounds in a respectful way. A well-thought-out holiday celebration can fo …
As financial aid professionals, we know that helping students afford college is at the core of our mission. While institutional aid, federal loans, and grants are essential, many students still face significant funding gaps. One powerful way financial aid offi …