In the News

State outreach programs have been working to get students and families the assistance they need to submit their FAFSA. The newest program is from the Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) and the Office of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP). It’s called the Retired Educator FAFSA Specialists Program, or REFS.

Setbacks in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) are pushing back enrollment deadlines for some universities. The delays come as FAFSA implemented big changes to their process this year.

The U.S. Department of Education's late rollout is just one issue that has plagued the search for financial aid this spring for graduating high school seniors and their families. It's also created uncertainty and delays for some students in knowing how much financial aid for which they will qualify to make paying for college more affordable.

In Michigan, the FAFSA fiasco carries an extra wrinkle of anxiety: The form is also the gateway for students to qualify for a state scholarship program that could also reduce the cost of college.

Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Ryan Fewins-Bliss, Executive Director, Michigan College Access Network, to discuss MCAN's focus on FAFSA Week of Action and associated efforts.

Michigan ranks 27th in states for the rate of high school seniors who have submitted the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as the FAFSA, according to the National College Attainment Network.

Chris Holman welcomes Jamie Jacobs, MCAN deputy director, to discuss MCAN's efforts in 2024 and how it's reacting to policy and planning from agencies in Lansing as it impacts college affordability and access in Michigan.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer arrived at Saginaw High School Thursday prepared to urge a group of college-bound seniors to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, a mammoth form of financial information that can secure students thousands of dollars in scholarships or loans.

It can be overwhelming, but Midland Area Career and College Access Network hopes to remove as many barriers as possible for post-secondary education, said Kristin Sovis, post-secondary education leader.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proposed making community college free to high school graduates, a major policy initiative she says will boost incomes, give students a more affordable path to obtaining bachelor’s degrees and provide advanced manufacturers that are “reshoring” operations with talented workers.