The college admissions process is typically stressful, but this year has been especially chaotic due to problems with the new FAFSA form. The rollout of the new application has caused major delays in getting accurate information to schools, leaving most students unsure of how much college will cost them next school year. This uncertainty makes it challenging for high school seniors to decide where, or if, to enroll by the usual May 1 deadline. College financial aid awards are typically offered by the end of March, but as of a recent hearing, most high school seniors had yet to receive an aid offer due to the FAFSA delays.
The FAFSA form underwent a necessary update mandated by Congress to make the application easier to fill out and potentially increase financial aid eligibility for more students. However, the form was not available to students and families until January, about three months later than usual, and is currently plagued by numerous glitches. Some experts are concerned that these problems may prevent low-income students from enrolling in college this fall, further complicating an already stressful time for many students and families.
The stories of three students illustrate how the FAFSA problems are impacting their college decisions. Chase Cunningham, a high school senior, has paid a deposit for Morehouse College but has not received any financial aid information. Ellie Norvitch, who applied early to colleges, has not received financial aid award letters from the six schools she applied to and is unsure about how much scholarships she may receive. Taylor Smith, a community college student, has had issues accessing her FAFSA form to make changes, preventing her from providing financial aid information to colleges she has recently applied to.
Cunningham, Norvitch, and Smith are all dealing with uncertainty and stress as they navigate the college admissions process amidst the FAFSA problems. For Cunningham, the cost of attending his top choice school is a major concern. Norvitch is worried about potentially receiving less financial aid than expected and having to reconsider her school choice. Smith is facing challenges with accessing her FAFSA form and making changes to it, impacting her ability to make informed decisions about college enrollment and affordability.
Despite the challenges they are facing, these students are attempting to navigate the situation as best as they can. Cunningham and his family are relying on faith as they await financial aid information. Norvitch is budgeting and considering her options carefully to avoid taking on excessive student debt. Smith is exploring alternative options and looking for ways to alleviate some of the stress, such as the extension of the state scholarship deadline in California and assistance from one of the schools she is considering. Ultimately, these students are hopeful for a resolution to the FAFSA problems that will allow them to make informed decisions about their college plans.
