The Florida College Access Network (FCAN) recently convened national experts to explore innovative strategies for increasing FAFSA completion rates. With Florida’s current completion rate at 24%, the webinar showcased successful approaches from across the country while highlighting practical solutions for local implementation.
Understanding the Impact
Dane Shelton, FCAN Research Analyst, opened the session with compelling data showing how FAFSA completion directly correlates with college enrollment and economic mobility. Research from Helios Education Foundation demonstrates that a 10% increase in enrollment could generate $3.43 billion in fiscal gains for Florida, with bachelor’s-degree holders earning nearly double that of high school graduates over their lifetime.
National Perspectives and Trends
Alessandra Cipriani-Detres from NCAN shared compelling data showing the critical relationship between FAFSA completion and college enrollment. States with higher FAFSA completion rates consistently see stronger immediate college enrollment rates among high school seniors. However, the Class of 2024 experienced unprecedented challenges, with completion rates dropping to 54.4% through mid-December — a stark decline from previous years.
Despite this national decline, some states have developed innovative approaches worth examining:
- Tennessee has emerged as a leader in FAFSA completion through their comprehensive FAFSA Frenzy initiative. The program combines a user-friendly toolkit with weekly school-specific completion updates, allowing counselors to directly support students who haven’t completed the form. Their Promise Program, which provides free community college tuition, requires FAFSA completion, creating a powerful incentive for students.
- Washington state has developed innovative solutions for supporting diverse student populations. Their targeted grant opportunities extend beyond traditional four-year programs to include career and technical education, apprenticeships, and certificate programs. The state has also created specialized resources for students facing unique challenges during the FAFSA process.
- Arizona showcases how technology and state investment can expand reach. Their initiatives feature the Ask Benji chatbot for instant student support; dedicated state funding for FAFSA initiatives; and a strong ecosystem of partners coordinating efforts
The key takeaway from these examples is that successful FAFSA completion efforts require what NCAN calls a “three-legged stool” approach combining strong practice, engaged people, and supportive policy. While states may have different resources available, there are elements from each program that can be adapted to local contexts.
Local Success Stories
Daniel Barkowitz, Assistant VP at the University of Miami, shared insights from a successful partnership with Broward Bridge2Life. Their approach combined large-scale events – including one that drew 1,000 participants and federal education officials – with consistent virtual support. Barkowitz emphasized the importance of making resources continuously available, noting that their recorded webinars on Bridge2Life’s YouTube channel provide step-by-step guidance for families completing the form.
Systemic Change Through Curriculum
Dr. David Ford from Iowa shared his state’s innovative approach to embedding FAFSA education within existing frameworks. Rather than pursuing universal FAFSA legislation, Iowa integrated financial aid awareness into its district career and academic planning requirements. This strategy begins in middle school, helping students understand college affordability before they make crucial course selection decisions that could impact their post-secondary options.
Despite an 11% decline in high school enrollment since 2012, Iowa has maintained steady FAFSA completion rates through this comprehensive approach. Dr. Ford emphasized the crucial role of administrative champions, noting that schools with engaged leadership consistently show stronger completion rates.
Looking Ahead
The webinar revealed several promising developments for the 2026-27 FAFSA cycle, including a simplified parent invitation process using six-digit links instead of the current complex email system. The U.S. Department of Education is also planning earlier beta testing opportunities, potentially starting August 1, which could help schools and organizations better prepare for the official October 1, 2025 launch.
FCAN’s Ongoing Support
FCAN continues to support these efforts through real-time data tracking and resource sharing. The organization is currently accepting nominations through March 14 for its annual Innovator Awards, including the FAFSA Trailblazer category recognizing high schools implementing outstanding completion initiatives.
These discussions will continue at the Talent Strong Florida Summit, May 5-7, 2025, where educators and administrators will have opportunities to dive deeper into successful FAFSA completion strategies.
Show Notes:
To access the webinar recording and presentation materials, visit:
Click here for more information about FCAN’s FAFSA resources or to submit an Innovator Award nomination.