A Scan of State Universal FAFSA Policies
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| Title: | A Scan of State Universal FAFSA Policies |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Sayda Martinez-Alvarado, EdTrust |
| Source: | EdTrust. 2025. |
| Availability: | EdTrust. 1250 H Street NW Suite 700, Washington, DC 20005. Tel: 202-293-1217; Fax: 202-293-2605; Web site: https://edtrust.org/ |
| Peer Reviewed: | N |
| Page Count: | 53 |
| Publication Date: | 2025 |
| Document Type: | Reports - Evaluative |
| Education Level: | Higher Education Postsecondary Education High Schools Secondary Education |
| Descriptors: | State Policy, Student Financial Aid, College Applicants, Low Income Students, College Attendance, Paying for College, Costs, Barriers, Eligibility, Grants, Federal Aid, Access to Information, Minority Group Students, High School Students, Student Characteristics |
| Abstract: | College enrollment has increased over the years but so has the cost. The total cost of attending college -- including tuition, room and board, necessary books and supplies, and more -- would be prohibitive for most students if not for financial aid. Yet, many students still cite financial barriers as the top reason for opting out of college. Eligible students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal aid, such as grants that do not need to be repaid (e.g., the Federal Pell Grant and Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant), funds in exchange for work (e.g., the Federal Work-Study Program), and loans that must be repaid (including subsidized and unsubsidized loans). Despite the availability of aid, a lack of clear information about the types of aid available and how the financial aid process works, and insufficient advising and guidance on how to navigate the system and pay for college deters many students -- particularly those of color and those from low-income backgrounds -- from applying for financial aid and enrolling in college. This report analyzes the policies of 14 states that have had, currently have, or will soon implement universal FAFSA policies. It also examines the subsequent impact of these policies on FAFSA submission and completion rates, as well as enrollment among Pell Grant recipients, where data is available. |
| Abstractor: | ERIC |
| Entry Date: | 2025 |
| Accession Number: | ED672497 |
| Database: | ERIC |
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