FAFSA changes threaten college enrollment as aid completion slows

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant challenges facing student financial aid applications due to changes in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The federal government has revised the FAFSA process, making it shorter but more complex for various student demographics. This has led to a notable decline in completion rates, particularly at institutions like SUNY Sullivan, where the completion rates have dropped by as much as 10% in some states.

Chancellor King of SUNY has initiated outreach efforts to address these issues, including a $10,000 grant aimed at increasing FAFSA completion rates. The funds will be used to hire additional staff to assist students who have started but not completed their applications, with outreach efforts also being conducted in Spanish to accommodate non-English speaking families.

The meeting also highlighted the impact of the recent closure of a local prison on SUNY Sullivan's Hudson Link program, which supports incarcerated and formerly incarcerated students. The closure has disrupted plans for new student cohorts, affecting enrollment numbers and the overall educational support available to this demographic.

As the college prepares for the upcoming fall semester, officials expressed cautious optimism about improving application rates with the new support measures in place. Additionally, there was a request for a budget presentation for the 2024-2025 fiscal year to be held during a public hearing on August 15, which is crucial for timely resolution submissions to Albany.

The meeting concluded with a positive note regarding the college's Equal Opportunity Program (EOP), which aims to support students in need, marking its first successful run this year.