Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced a campaign on Monday aimed at increasing the number of students that apply for federal aid.
Dubbed the “Governor’s FAFSA Challenge,” Whitmer is encouraging Michigan high schools to increase how many graduates apply for Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as FAFSA. The governor’s challenge is part of the Michigan College Access Network’s annual College Cash Campaign.
The FAFSA is the only way for students to access federal and state financial aid for post-secondary education. The form determines the amount expected to be contributed by the student’s family and is used by the federal government or institution to determine grants or loans.
According to the governor’s office, only 55.9 percent of the Michigan class of 2019 completed the FAFSA, a decrease of 0.7 percent from the year before. MCAN is hoping to raise the completion rate to 75 percent by 2020.
“Every student deserves a path to a quality, affordable postsecondary education, and filling out FAFSA forms can make an enormous difference for families across the state,” Whitmer said in a statement.
Nearly 25,000 Michigan students eligible for Pell grants did not file for federal aid last year, leaving nearly $100 million in unclaimed grant funding, according to a statement from the governor’s office.
“Perceived affordability is one of the biggest myths students encounter on their journey to furthering their education,” said Ryan Fewins-Bliss, MCAN executive director, in a statement. “Applying for financial aid is an important step to helping students navigate the college and financial application process.
The governor’s challenge includes student incentives, framed tributes from the executive office and recognition on social media. The top three high schools will have the opportunity to host Whitmer, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist and other Michigan celebrities as their commencement or Decision Day speaker.
Ten other schools will also have the opportunity for a group of high school seniors to meet the governor and tour the Capitol.
Nearly 500 high schools across Michigan are expected to participate in the challenge.
“I just finished helping my daughter fill out her FAFSA application while she applied to colleges. It’s simple and can help students everywhere get on a path to a quality postsecondary education,” Whitmer said. “I’m excited to partner with MCAN as they work to spread the word about FAFSA and hope high schools everywhere will accept the challenge and aim for a 75 percent rate.”
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Jordyn Pair is a reporter at The Michigan Star.
