Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Fafsa Outreach topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
WSAC says FAFSA applications lag 2023 totals despite expanded outreach
Summary
WSAC reported FAFSA application counts remain behind 2023 levels as of late October 2024 and described expanded outreach with partners, trainings and new tools to help students complete applications.
Executive Director Michael Meotti said the Washington Student Achievement Council has stepped up outreach after last year's FAFSA problems and is working with partners including the College Success Foundation and the U.S. Department of Education on the FAFSA beta cycle. "As it stands in the end of October 2024, the number of applications is still behind what they were in 2023," Meotti said.
Council members urged students to file as soon as possible. Ruben Flores said, "I strongly urge students to complete FAFSA as soon as possible. It takes around two weeks for a financial aid officer to process an award package." WSAC staff said outreach includes weekly tracking of applications, email campaigns, in-person events, and a chatbot tool (OtterBot) to assist students.
Rep. Mari Leavitt asked how WSAC is coordinating with K-12 districts on late school starts; WSAC replied staff maintain contact via email and in-person presentations. Michael Meotti also noted CAI trainings have reached about 600 individuals from 34 organizations and colleges and 49 districts, and roughly 900 school staff were informed at fall counselor workshops.
The council did not take a formal vote on new policy in this meeting. Next steps noted by members included continuing weekly FAFSA monitoring, prioritizing outreach to high-need districts, and reporting back with updated application counts.
