On October 1, when the Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) site opened for the 2020-21 school year, we shared a blog about the importance for college-going families to apply for FAFSA.
As COVID-19 spreads across the nation, many families and financial situations have been affected. If families completed the FAFSA in late 2019, or even earlier this year, and have had a change in employment status or special circumstances, they can (and should) appeal their college financial aid package. The U.S. Department of Education has issued guidance to colleges and university financial aid officers.
Where can you direct students and families for help?
Enter SwiftStudent, the only free, central repository of financial aid appeals / requests letter templates for students. This site is an easy resource to use to understand appeals and create an appeal letter. The templates guide the user through special situations and the required information necessary, and in the end, you come out with completed letters that can be sent on to financial aid offices at schools. It should be noted, however, that some institutions may require additional information to these site-generated letters. Please refer to each institution’s website for more details.
ACT and Swift Student joined forces to host a webinar on May 14 at 3:00 p.m., EDT on demystifying the financial aid appeals process. Learn from the experts on:
-what a financial aid appeal is;
-factors that may qualify students to seek an appeal;
-a tool that can help them request the appeal; and more!
View the recording here.
Below are other helpful resource links for families to check out:
- Understanding Your Financial Aid Package – What to Look for in Your Award
- Estimating the Cost of College
- Financial Aid Checklist
- Apply for Financial Aid – Five Important Steps to Follow
- Access product updates, digital learning, and workforce resources to assist students, teachers, schools, and workers impacted by COVID-19.