The completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) dropped significantly by 11.6% this year compared to last year, according to data from the National College Attainment Network. Only 46% of graduating high school seniors completed the form by June 28, despite efforts to simplify it with the Better FAFSA rollout, which was delayed and marred by technical issues. States with laws requiring FAFSA completion for high school graduation showed higher rates, but overall, completion rates were lower across all student groups, particularly among low-income backgrounds and students of color.
https://www.chalkbeat.org/colorado/2024/07/08/fafsa-completion-decreases-among-high-school-students