FAFSA Priority Deadlines + Resources
Some level of education beyond high school remains the most reliable and enduring way out of poverty; for example, eighty percent of “good jobs” are held by workers with at least some postsecondary education. Yet youth experiencing homelessness face unique barriers in transitioning to and completing postsecondary education. One of the most significant barriers is access to financial aid; without financial aid, they cannot transition to and complete their college education, and remain at higher risk of continued homelessness and hardship as adults. Seniors who complete the FAFSA are 84% more likely to immediately enroll in a postsecondary education.
With FAFSA priority deadlines fast approaching, it is important to remind students to fill out the FAFSA!
FAFSA Resources
Inform Students about the FAFSA: Use This Email Template
It is important to remind students that the FAFSA is available so they can pursue postsecondary education with as much financial aid as possible. Direct outreach to unaccompanied youth experiencing homelessness is crucial. The email template can be used by liaisons, service providers, and financial aid administrators to inform students experiencing homelessness that the 2022-2023 FAFSA is now available, and specific steps to help them complete the application.
Sample Form Letters to Determine the Independent Student Status of Unaccompanied Homeless Youth
Another ESSA amendment to the McKinney-Vento Act requires school district liaisons to inform unaccompanied homeless youth of their status as independent students for financial aid (the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA) and help them obtain verification of that status. To help implement this policy, we’ve prepared a sample form letter to determine the independent student status of unaccompanied homeless youth.
The FAFSA Simplification Act: Youth Experiencing Homelessness and Youth with Experience in Foster Care
The FAFSA Simplification Act aims to remove many of the barriers faced by youth experiencing homelessness or with experience in foster care. The new provisions for homeless and foster youth are in effect for the 2023-2024 award year, here’s a summary of the changes.
SchoolHouse Connection’s FAFSA Page
This page provides comprehensive FAFSA-related resources to help youth, K-12 educators, homeless service providers, and higher education professionals understand, prepare, and fill out the FAFSA.
