Better FAFSA Support

Navigating this transformative tool successfully necessitates a profound understanding of the updated terms, streamlined processes, and remaining current on vital resources. In light of this, we extend an exclusive invitation for you to participate in an informative webinar designed to equip our esteemed COE institutional members with the essential tools, updates, and targeted insights relevant to the TRIO community.

• Comprehensive Walk-through: Understand the Better FAFSA through a detailed, participant-centric walk-through.
• Proactive Delay Management: Gain insights into handling potential delays or waiting periods effectively.
• Managing Expectations for Phase 2: Navigate and anticipate forthcoming changes as FSA prepares for the next phase.

We recognize the importance of staying ahead in an ever-evolving landscape. This session aims not only to illuminate the intricacies of the Better FAFSA but also to empower you with the knowledge needed to navigate any challenges that may arise. Your participation is highly valued, and we look forward to your presence at this insightful event. Download materials here.

COE offered its members head starts with a four-part Better FAFSA series. If you missed it, fear not! COE institutional members can obtain recordings of each part by contacting Angelica Vialpando at angelica.vialpando@coenet.org. To explore membership options and discuss any questions, contact Vanessa Ramirez at vanessa.ramirez@coenet.org.

In 2024, COE offered its members a three-part Better FAFSA series after its release in December.

• Part 1- FAFSA Walk-Through and Support: As we usher in the new year, January brings a pivotal moment – the release of the Better FAFSA. Navigating this transformative tool successfully necessitates a profound understanding of the updated terms, streamlined processes, and remaining current on vital resources. In light of this, we extend an exclusive invitation for you to participate in an informative webinar designed to equip our esteemed COE institutional members with the essential tools, updates, and targeted insights relevant to the TRIO community.
• Part 2- Institutional Student Information Record (ISIR), Eligibility and More: Achieving success with the latest tool requires a comprehensive understanding of new terms and processes and staying current on vital resources. That’s why we invite you to join this exclusive webinar, where we’ll provide the necessary tools and updates and address specific questions pertaining to the TRIO community.
• Part 3- The Roadmap Through April & Beyond: March is the usual target month for institution awards and the time to address any lingering questions or challenges for your participants. This session will present updates from FSA, new FAQs, and any options for flexibility to get through March and April to the months beyond.

In 2023, COE offered its members head starts with a four-part Better FAFSA series.

• Part 1 – Understanding the Terminology: Understanding it will simplify the process and help you explain the need for FAFSA completion. All of this is necessary to get the FSAID started. Learn about the data elements and FSAID process to support your TRIO participants.
• Part 2 – Enhanced Importance of the FSAID: FSAID is the first step to get the new FAFSA complete. What is next? Who completes the form? Does it link to your state FA options? Can you get support in your local area or state? COE answered these questions and provided additional resources to support your success before the release. We also provided an FAQ.
• Part 3 – Proactive Approaches in the Era of a Better FAFSA: Don’t wait for the release of the Better FAFSA! Use community effort to address any challenges. For example, some programs operate in rural areas, or with adults who may have completed prior FAFSAs. COE addressed potential unforeseen situations.
• Part 4 – Better FAFSA- Almost Go Time: Are you making progress with the New FAFSA? Interested in the components of a successful FAFSA workshop? This webinar addressed how to get to success as well as unintended consequences that may have surfaced with this new process. It considered how questions are asked as well as the ramifications of IRS and ISIR information. The goal is to get to a successful submission summary page.