FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA, has been delayed until March, five months later than the usual.
Every year, FAFSA typically opens in October, but a change to that to improve the process is shaking things up. Change isn't always the easiest, and University of Arkansas’ Dean of Admissions Suzanne McCray knows the challenge this has on students.
“The US government decided that they wanted to make this as an easier process for students. And of course, we all know, whenever you change something that has been in place for a very long time, there can be some bumps along the way. And that's certainly what we're experiencing here," McCray said.
Despite the delay, the U of A is still in a great spot and could be looking at another record class, according to McCray.
“Our applications are up over last year; we are really expecting a robust class this fall. So probably the second largest in our history,” McCray said.
While the university is doing well, Fayetteville High School's college counselor Lesli Zeagler says this year's high school senior class has a lot more on their plate than the classes before them.
“Seniors are stressed right now anyway, they know that within eight to 12 months, their life is going to be very different. And usually, they can go ahead and make that decision about at least where they're gonna live or you know, where they're going to be going to school. And it just is pushing that decision back,” Zeagler said.
But these students should still have plenty of time to make a decision even with the huge delay.
“If students can, you know, just wait, we're talking about maybe six weeks, wait another six weeks, you will have time to make your decision and make a good one. And colleges? No, I think students are trying very, very hard to meet these deadlines. And they've been dealt a hand that says, 'I'm sorry, you can't make the deadline that you originally thought,' and colleges know this and are going to be sympathetic,” Zeagler said.
While the normal deadline for a college decision is May 1, many colleges are petitioning for a little added time for students.
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