My senior year was buzzing with excitement about college, but the FAFSA loomed like a daunting puzzle. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, was this complicated form that everyone said was crucial. Our struggles were all based on completing it as urged across all social media platforms where many students complained, finding it insignificant to their future.
“I think it’s pointless and I’ve heard so many different thoughts about it that made me think twice about actually doing it, but I did end up doing it. It is so complex I just wish the process was shorter,” said senior Camilla Souza.
“I found it tedious and I found it ridiculous how they ask questions that don’t seem relevant,” — Veronica Salazar
Even if the FAFSA is a pain to complete, its importance can be seen from people who went through this already.
“They ask a bunch of complicated questions and the process took forever for me. I hated it, but it was worth it,” said now-college student Ashlee Ruiz.
For these reasons, we must consider avoiding the excuses of why this form is “ridiculous” and appreciate its significance to our future.
Some think, “We won’t qualify for financial aid.”
There’s this idea that if your parents earn decent money, you’re out. But it turns out, income isn’t the only thing they look at. The FAFSA considers various factors, and many schools won’t even look at your application without it.
The classic excuse is typically the, “We don’t need financial aid,” but it shouldn’t be an excuse for incompletion. Having a completed FAFSA is like a safety net getting you ready for unexpected financial bumps.
People also fear student loans. I get it; loans sound scary. But there are these Federal Direct Student Loans with perks and protections. You only get them if you fill out the FAFSA. It’s like a strategic move for your college finances.
The FAFSA itself has a bad rep for being too complex. Good news, though—the FAFSA Simplification Act is making it shorter and easier, like from over 100 questions to around three dozen. That’s a game-changer.
These simple reasons can prove the significant role FAFSA plays for your upcoming college years. It can make a difference whether you choose to believe in it or not.
Overall, the FAFSA isn’t just paperwork; it’s a ticket to making college possible. Changes are coming, making it less of a headache and more of a path to help seniors like me and you achieve their dreams.
