The Florida College Access Network (FCAN) has launched a new resource — “Strengthening Statewide FAFSA Completion“—to help families, schools, and communities boost access to college financial aid and drive progress toward Florida’s talent and workforce goals.
Financial literacy efforts will now include FAFSA basics – like those outlined in HB 1255––emphasizing its value and simplicity. The one-pager serves as a practical resource designed to raise awareness about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and its critical role in helping Florida students access education beyond high school.
“This resource lays out a clear plan,” said Braulio Colón, FCAN’s Executive Director. “FAFSA completion isn’t just a form—it’s a game-changer for many students. And this one-pager gives every district the tools to make sure students don’t miss out.”
The FAFSA is key for unlocking financial aid for college and career education, including federal Pell Grants, Florida Student Assistance Grants (FSAG), institutional aid, work-study programs, scholarships, and low-interest loans. Florida high school graduates left more than $970 million in Pell Grants on the table over the past three years because they did not complete the form. Many students simply lack awareness.
“If students learned about FAFSA earlier, they’d be better prepared to plan for college and careers,” said Kailia G., an undergraduate student featured in the new resource. “Even just starting the conversation earlier in high school could make a huge difference.”
The one-pager outlines three bold actions Florida can take to keep the momentum going:
1. Teach FAFSA early and often.
Financial literacy efforts—like those outlined in HB 1255—should include FAFSA basics, emphasizing its value and simplicity.
2. Equip schools with the right data.
Counselors need access to student-level FAFSA data to track who’s completed the form and who still needs help. Today, 51 of Florida’s 67 school districts have this access thanks to successful local outreach.
3. Use what works — and scale it.
FCAN’s FAFSA Challenge gives schools and counselors free tools to boost completions.
Download “Strengthening Statewide FAFSA Completion” and help spread the word: FAFSA opens doors — and every student deserves a chance to walk through them.