College Possible Wisconsin initiates FAFSA completion campaign

College Possible Wisconsin (CPW) has launched a statewide campaign to assist families with completing their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) applications. This initiative responds to technical issues and delays associated with the rollout of a new FAFSA application system.

The FAFSA application is a key step for many Wisconsin families seeking higher education. Recent complications with the application system have created challenges for potential college students. CPW, an organization with 15 years of experience in college preparation assistance, has prioritized helping students complete their FAFSA applications.

Throughout the summer, CPW will offer:

• Free, individual support from financial aid experts
• Community drop-in hours with resources for college application and FAFSA processes
• Virtual help sessions
• FAFSA completion workshops at various locations

Drop-in hours will be held at the CPW headquarters in Milwaukee’s Schlitz Park. Transportation assistance and refreshments will be provided. Students and families can contact CPW staff at [email protected] for additional support or to schedule one-on-one sessions outside of drop-in hours.

The Wisconsin Policy Forum reports that FAFSA application completion rates in Wisconsin have decreased from 51.3% last year to 33.9% this year. The decline is more pronounced among students of color and those from lower-income families, with a 14% decrease. In contrast, CPW reports a 92% FAFSA completion rate among students seeking assistance.

“This decline in FAFSA application completion in 2024 will take a toll on the Wisconsin workforce for decades to come,” said Executive Director of CPW, Marco Morrison. “But it is not too late to ensure a brighter future for Wisconsin students. I want to encourage anyone who thought the FAFSA was too challenging to drop by College Possible, and we’ll get you back on track to the future you truly deserve—and always without cost.”

Pursuing post-secondary education is associated with improved life outcomes, including higher pay and increased job stability. The Wisconsin Policy Forum notes that nearly two-thirds of the state’s expected high-paying job openings through 2030 are projected to require a college degree.

CPW provides support throughout students’ college journeys, including assistance with paid internships, ongoing grants and scholarships, and resources for living expenses, books, supplies, and account balances.

Drop-in hours at the CPW headquarters:

Tuesday, 7/23 12-3PM

Thursday, 7/25 12-3PM

Friday, 8/2 10-3PM

Tuesday, 8/6 12-3PM

Friday, 8/9 10 am-3PM

Tuesday, 8/13 12-3PM

Virtual help sessions:

Saturday, 7/27 2-4PM

Wednesday, 7/31 5:30-7PM 

Other FAFSA completion workshops:

Tuesday, 7/30 10-2PM at Mount Mary College

Friday, 8/30 12-2PM at UW-Milwaukee

For more information or to support College Possible Wisconsin’s mission, visit: https://collegepossible.org/locations/wisconsin/