
Low-income students faced challenges applying for college financial aid this school year due to issues with the updated Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is crucial for accessing federal Pell grants, student loans, and other forms of financial aid, making college more affordable for many students.
According to a recent analysis by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), total FAFSA submissions were down by 3% compared to the previous year, with the largest drop seen among families earning between $30,001 to $48,000 and individuals with incomes of $30,000 or less.