After FAFSA hiccups, more WV students completing the financial aid application
More West Virginia students are completing the college financial aid application, known as the FAFSA, following pandemic interruptions and nationwide issues with the form over the last year.
According to data tracked by the National College Attainment Network, the state's Free Application for Federal Student Aid completion rate stands at 49.8%.
The state now ranks 15th in the nation for students completing the FAFSA, which is up from 19th last year, according to a news release from the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission.
Brian Weingart, senior director of financial aid at the commission, said the HEPC has worked side-by-side with schools, counselors and communities to make sure students had 'a clever path to financial aid.' HEPC credits the success to statewide partnerships.
'Whether it's through hands-on FAFSA events, real-time data tools, or text message nudges, we're meeting students where they are and helping them take that critical next step toward college. Behind every completed FAFSA is a student who's one step closer to their future,' he said.
The federal government's 2024 botched rollout of the new FAFSA form prompted former Gov. Jim Justice to declare a state of emergency and suspended a requirement that college-bound high school seniors fill out the FAFSA in order to receive state financial aid, including the state's Promise Scholarship.
Unlike some other states, West Virginia didn't have a statewide FAFSA mandate. Instead, the HEPC said it focused on strategic outreach and community engagement.
A WV FAFSA day in February brought together more than 50 high schools and colleges. The organization also used 'TXT 4 Success,' a text message program that provides personalized guidance and nudges to help students stay on track with financial aid deadlines.
'West Virginia's success, and approach, offer a lot for other communities and states to learn from,' said Bill DeBaun, senior director at the National College Attainment Network in Washington. 'Thoughtful, coordinated efforts like these that support practitioners in districts and schools make a big difference.'
West Virginia's Chancellor of Higher Education Dr. Sarah Armstrong Tucker added, 'We built momentum through strong partnerships with our schools and counselors, innovative tools and a shared commitment to our students' futures. I am deeply proud of our team and the many school counselors, educators, and families who have rallied around this cause. Together, we're showing what's possible when we put students first.'
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