In a recent development, the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) have extended the college commitment date until May 15, offering crucial support to students navigating challenges with the new Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The Los Angeles Times reports that technical glitches and hurdles within the FAFSA system prompted this extension, allowing students more time to make informed decisions about their higher education journey.
By extending the decision window, we aim to ensure California students, particularly those from low-income and first-generation backgrounds, have the time and space to fully assess their options, said Han Mi Yoon-Wu, associate vice provost for undergraduate admissions at the UC Office of the President, in a statement announcing the extension.
Education Department announced in late January that student federal aid information will not reach colleges until mid-March, at the earliest. Advocates requested institutions push their commitment days as a result of this. The University of California and California State University system’s decision to push their deadline by two weeks applies to all 10 UC campuses and all 23 CSU campuses.
Thus far, Fulfillment Fund’s data is showing our College Counselors are spending, on average, four times as much time as last year helping each student complete their financial aid applications. Our commitment to supporting students remains steadfast as we work with them to secure their financial aid packages to make them the first in their families to graduate from college.