The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a gateway to accessing federal financial aid for college. It’s a crucial step for many students, but the process can be daunting (the new form is killer!), especially for those who are unfamiliar with financial aid or who face language barriers.
The Role of the FAFSA Completion Corps
SUNY’s FAFSA Completion Corps, a program partially-funded through AmeriCorps, was established to address this challenge. The program recruits and trains AmeriCorps members to assist prospective and current students in completing the FAFSA. By providing direct support and guidance, the Corps aims to increase FAFSA completion rates, particularly among underserved populations.
Key Program Objectives
- Increase FAFSA Completion Rates: The primary goal is to help more students, especially those from low-income backgrounds or underrepresented communities, complete the FAFSA and access available financial aid, increasing the likelihood of college enrollment and completion.
- Provide One-on-One Assistance: AmeriCorps members offer personalized support, helping students understand the FAFSA process, gather necessary documentation, and submit their applications accurately.
- Educate Students and Families: The Corps also plays a vital role in educating students and their families about the importance of financial planning for higher education and the various types of aid available.
- Build Community Partnerships: To reach a wider audience, the FAFSA Completion Corps collaborates with community organizations, schools, and other institutions to promote FAFSA awareness and provide outreach services.
How the Program Works
The FAFSA Completion Corps operates through a network of AmeriCorps members stationed at SUNY campuses across New York. These members receive training on FAFSA completion, financial aid eligibility, and outreach strategies. They then work directly with students, providing assistance in person, by phone, or online.
Benefits for AmeriCorps Members
In addition to the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of students, AmeriCorps members participating in the FAFSA Completion Corps receive several benefits:
- Stipend: Members receive a modest stipend to cover living expenses.
- Education Award: Upon successful completion of their service, members earn a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award, which can be used to pay for tuition, fees, or room and board at eligible schools.
- Professional Development: The program offers opportunities for professional growth, including training and workshops on financial literacy, education policy, and community engagement.
- Networking: AmeriCorps members have the chance to connect with other professionals in the field of higher education and build valuable relationships.
Investing in a One-Stop-Shop to Handle Memeber Enrollment, Timesheets, and Impact Tracking
As the program moves into its second year, leadership decided to invest in the Impact Suite, giving staff, site supervisors, and members statewide a simple, one-stop platform to handle AmeriCorps member files, timesheets (with a mobile app), and impact tracking. We’re so grateful for the program selecting the Impact Suite and can’t wait to help staff shift massive amounts of time from admin to mission-focused work!