The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) has long been a vital resource for many students pursuing higher education, offering access to scholarships, grants, and loans. For the 2023-24 school year, FAFSA underwent significant changes to simplify the process and expand eligibility. While these changes aimed to make the application more accessible, they introduced new requirements, timelines, and technical glitches that created unprecedented challenges for students and families.
At College Possible Texas, we recognized the urgency of addressing these challenges. To ensure students had the necessary support, we quickly expanded access to our team of coaches with financial aid expertise by hosting in-person workshops, offering one-on-one coaching, and conducting virtual FAFSA webinars for districts with significant completion gaps.
Our response was swift and effective. In collaboration with TXCAN—powered by a Gates Foundation grant, ECMC Foundation, and the Houston Public Libraries, College Possible Texas held twelve FAFSA events at Capital One Cafés in Austin, welcoming Central Texas students for hands-on application assistance. In partnership with Aldine ISD, we hosted two block parties with bounce houses, food, and community support for Houston-area students and families navigating the financial aid process together. Sarah Fiedler, a College Possible Texas virtual access team advising specialist, called it a “fantastic collaboration with the community,” adding that FAFSA completion numbers soared at these events. College Possible Texas coaches and advising specialists also hosted online webinars, ensuring accessible presentations and Q&A sessions were available to any student or family member across Texas needing guidance and support.
Through these efforts, College Possible Texas coaches guided students in understanding complex financial aid concepts, clarifying new requirements that impact eligibility, and providing peace of mind during a confusing time. Altogether, we reached 40,056 people and helped 2,629 students complete their applications.
Melody Lipford, a College Possible virtual access team advising specialist, shared how rewarding it was to witness students’ reactions to the support: “It was amazing to see the look of accomplishment on students’ faces when they were able to complete their FAFSA and spin the prize wheel at our block parties to celebrate their progress in their college-going journey,” she recalled.
At College Possible Texas, we tackled the new FAFSA changes head-on, prioritizing early preparation, leveraging innovative technology, and fostering impactful partnerships to empower students. Reflecting on our past efforts and successes, we recognize that this year’s challenges are already in full swing. That’s why we’re doubling our commitment to stay at the forefront as problem-solvers, advocates, and collaborators in tackling FAFSA-related barriers.
We are creating a massive collective impact with our partners, extending resources and support to students and families statewide. With these ongoing efforts, we’re ensuring that financial barriers won’t hinder students from achieving their higher education goals.
