It is a daily ritual for millions of Australians, but if you have noticed the price of your morning flat white or soy latte increase, brace yourself — it is likely to get worse.
By the end of the year,...
It is a daily ritual for millions of Australians, but if you have noticed the price of your morning flat white or soy latte increase, brace yourself — it is likely to get worse.
By the end of the year,...
College costs remain sky-high, with some universities nearing $100,000 per year. However, most families pay significantly less thanks to financial aid. Scholarships, grants, and loans reduce the net cost, making many schools more affordable. Filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is crucial for accessing federal aid, even with recent issues.
Several universities are expanding their financial aid programs, providing more students with the opportunity to graduate debt-free. Vanderbilt University will offer full-tuition scholarships to families earning up to $150,000 annually, while Dartmouth has increased its income threshold for zero parent contributions to $125,000. These changes come amid concerns that rising college costs may deter enrollment, especially among lower-income families.
The US Department of Education is facing criticism over ongoing issues with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Former student loan official Wayne Johnson has accused the department of "malicious negligence" for technical problems preventing students from accessing and completing forms. This has delayed award letters, leaving applicants in limbo and potentially reducing college enrollment as happened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Republican lawmakers and financial aid administrators are also expressing concerns, highlighting a need for quick resolutions.
A faulty new application for financial aid, FAFSA, is discouraging students from applying, causing a drop in the number of submissions. As FAFSA is crucial for college access, it could lead to a decline in fall enrollment. The issues have affected those who rely on financial assistance, with many facing frustration and giving up. Despite attempts to simplify the application, the problems have resulted in fewer applications, potentially limiting opportunities for low-income students.
FAFSA application rates have plummeted (15%) due to form issues, jeopardizing aid for two million students. Experts fear eligible individuals, particularly low-income Pell Grant recipients, may miss out. Despite simplification efforts, states explore mandating FAFSA for seniors, as it correlates with college enrollment. Families often misperceive ineligibility, deterring applications. The Education Department must address FAFSA problems and provide students with essential financial support for higher education.
Despite challenges, Harvard University has reclaimed its position as the most sought-after institution for prospective students, surpassing competitors such as MIT and Stanford. An increased early acceptance rate has potentially alleviated concerns following antisemitism incidents. Harvard's generous financial aid, notably free tuition for families earning less than $85,000, continues to be a significant attraction for students, mitigating the impact of financial aid delays faced by some families.
