Mandatory FAFSA filing helps students and the Commonwealth

Why are so many high school students choosing to limit their opportunities to receive grants and scholarships for college? A mere 55% of Kentucky high school students completed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in 2021 leaving more than $54 million in Pell grant aid on the table. 

I think there are several reasons for this.

• Some people think the FAFSA is only for student loans. - It’s not, and students may be missing out on nearly $7,000 a year in Pell grants, which don’t have to be paid back.
• They think they don’t qualify for aid. - There’s only one way to find out. Complete the FAFSA.
• The forms are too difficult and time consuming. - Yes, they are. But there’s good news. A simplified form is on the way.
• They fear the federal government will learn too much about them. - The truth is, if someone files income tax returns, the government already has that person’s financial information.

One option that has increased the number of high school students completing a FAFSA is making it a requirement for high school graduation. This has been done in several states, including Alabama, Louisiana and Texas. Louisiana, the first state to implement such a requirement, saw increases in FAFSA filing, high school graduation and postsecondary enrollment rates. Additionally, Louisiana effectively closed the gap in FAFSA completion between low-income and high-income school districts – with disparate districts now having nearly equal completion rates.

A bill called FAFSA for the Future has now been filed in Kentucky. It includes an important opt-out feature for some students, such as those entering the military. KCTCS and the universities would like to see this bill passed. It not only opens up opportunities for students, but also in the long run is a win for Kentucky’s economy as more people have higher paying jobs. For companies looking to locate in Kentucky, a well-trained workforce is high on their list of priorities.

For years, experts have been predicting the jobs of the future would require some education after high school. Well, the future is here. If our high school graduates are to move into good careers, they need to earn a college credential. This doesn’t necessarily mean a degree. There are good careers available to those who earn industry specific certificates.

The cost of earning a college credential is a concern for many people in the Commonwealth. It’s one of the main reasons people cite as to why they aren’t attending college. There are a number of ways cover the cost and it all starts with a FAFSA.   

To file a FAFSA, visit the website or contact your local KCTCS college.