IHEP Joins Call for On-Time FAFSA Launch

Washington, DC (June 10, 2024) –The Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP) joined 25 partner organizations in a letter to Secretary Cardona urging the Department of Education to commit to a traditional October 1st launch date for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), including FAFSA processing, school receipt of processed FAFSAs, processing of paper FAFSAs, and FAFSA correction functionality for applicants, schools, and states. A delayed launch disrupts financial aid planning for institutions, counselors, and students, ultimately impacting college enrollment. Delays experienced in the 2023-2024 cycle resulted in a significant drop in FAFSA completion rates. IHEP stands with other organizations advocating for a timely FAFSA launch to ensure equitable access to need-based financial aid for all students.