Denver - Governor Polis and the Colorado Department of Higher Education is urging all high school seniors and their families to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Colorado Application for State Financial Aid (CASFA) as part of the FAFSA Week of Action which takes place April 15-19. Earlier this month, the White House and the U.S. Department of Education announced FAFSA Week of Action, a national initiative that stresses the importance of completing the FAFSA which aims to make postsecondary education more affordable.

“Every student should fill out their FAFSA form to save them and families money while getting the education they deserve to take the next step in their career. We want more students and families to keep more of their hard-earned money, and this is a great way to do that,” said Governor Jared Polis.

Data shows that students who submit the FAFSA are more likely to enroll in a postsecondary program, persist in their studies and earn a degree or credential. According to the National College Attainment Network, through March 15, FAFSA submissions by high school seniors are down about 30% nationally and 27% in Colorado, which represents about a 15-percentage point gap between the classes of 2023 and 2024. Given the national trend and decline in FAFSA submissions, Colorado currently ranks 42 for FAFSA submissions. Even with submissions significantly lower than in past years, the FAFSA Week of Action campaign aims to inspire students to complete this important form and access potential financial aid opportunities.

“I empathize with the students and families affected by this year’s FAFSA delays, but I want to stress that it is never too late to access financial aid and make your postsecondary journey affordable,” said Dr. Angie Paccione, executive director of CDHE.  “Now is the time to take action and either start or finish your FAFSA or CASFA. Many of our colleges and universities have extended their enrollment deadlines to make sure that you still receive the financial aid that you qualify for.”

Dr. Paccione recorded a brief video message to emphasize the urgency of a concerted effort from all stakeholders and at all levels to assist students and families with completing the 2024-25 FAFSA.

CDHE continues to work with school counselors, students and families and colleges and universities, holding outreach events, educator financial aid trainings, lunch and learn webinars and increased outreach to school staff who assist students in completing the FAFSA/CASFA. 

CDHE has resources available for students, families and educators designed to help students and strengthen FAFSA/CASFA completion rates.