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FAFSA Support Best Practices for Counselors

To ensure students and families successfully complete the FAFSA and access critical financial aid, counselors should take a proactive, organized, and compassionate approach. Key best practices include:

• Plan Early: Start scheduling financial aid events ahead of FAFSA’s December release. Promote events, review FAFSA updates, and encourage families to create their FSA IDs early to avoid delays.
• Update Materials: Revise outdated resources and website content to reflect the latest FAFSA information, preventing confusion from conflicting guidance.
• Expand Access: Host virtual, recorded sessions for flexible access, provide translation services, and offer targeted one-on-one or small group support. Involve trusted adults (e.g., teachers or coaches) to reach hesitant families.
• Provide Sensitive Support: Be mindful of sensitive information required on the FAFSA. Offer private spaces and opportunities for discreet questions during events.
• Send Timely Reminders: Follow up after events with strategic emails or texts, help prevent form timeouts, and consider simple incentives to encourage completion.
• Build a Support Team: Don’t go it alone—form a cross-functional team of staff to coordinate efforts and show students and families that the whole school is invested in their success.