Department of Education issues reminder: Federal grant funds may not be used on lobbying activity

Higher education officials may already know that federal grant funds cannot be used for lobbying efforts but just in case anyone didn’t know, the Department of Education sent out a reminder earlier this week.

Government “shutdown” has limited impact on students, schools, borrowers, and other entities involved in the Title IV programs

The government shutdown – or lapse in appropriations to fund the federal government – will have a limited impact on students and schools, in particular, which is good news.

Federal Student Aid October 8 webinar on Charges and Credit Balances has been cancelled

The temporary government shutdown is impacting webinar opportunities for financial aid professionals.

FY 2022 national default rate briefing released

The national student loan default rate remains at 0% for the third year in a row.

Federal Need Analysis Methodology updated for the 2026-27 Award Year

To keep pace with the cost of living, the Department of Education recently updated the numbers used in determining whether a student qualifies for need-based federal financial aid.

Department of Education releases 2026-27 College Financing Plan

Those financial aid professionals who opt to use the Department of Education’s College Financial Plan template now have a new version for the 2026-27 award year.

Launch of the 2026-27 FAFSA is the earliest in the program’s history

The 2026-27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available for all students to complete.

Five reasons you should complete the FAFSA

Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can make the difference when it comes to pursuing your dreams for the future.

Department of Education releases guidance on the use of federal student aid data

Schools, state agencies, and contractors all have a role in safeguarding student and parent data received as a part of the federal student aid process.

Department to distribute 2025-26 Supplemental funds for work-study and grants to specific colleges

Students should benefit when some colleges will receive 2025-26 supplemental Campus-Based funds in the near future.

EDExpress for Windows 2026-27, Release 1.0 now available

EDExpress users now have access to the EDExpress for Windows 2026-27, Release 1.0 software, which includes legislative updates and changes implemented during the 2026-27 FAFSA beta testing.

Department of Education announces resolution of Federal Pell Grant eligibility issues

Two “bugs” in the FAFSA Processing System that resulted in incorrect Pell Grant eligibility data have been resolved.

Enhanced ACT now available to national paper-pencil test takers

ACT test takers now have a shorter test and the option of taking the science section.

Remember, you’re not superhuman

Sometimes we may feel superhuman or others may expect us to be superhuman.

October tasks for seniors

During your senior year, you will finalize your college choice.