Issues with New FAFSA May Cause ‘Shocking’ Decline in the Number of Students Getting College Aid, Expert Says

Problems with the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid have discouraged many students and their families from completing an application. As of the last tally, less than five million students have submitted the 2024-25 FAFSA form so far.  Given the current status of FAFSA submissions, the Department of Education is on track to see two million fewer FAFSAs submitted this year, a 15% decline, according to higher education expert Mark Kantrowitz. Studies show students are more likely to enroll in college when they have the financial resources to help them pay for it.Despite a growing need, fewer students are applying for college financial aid.