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The NASFAA National Conference is back after a year like no other. In a year where FAFSA simplification has brought about innumerable challenges to all those in the profession, attendees learned firsthand that their lived experiences and expertise should serve as a guide to telling their own stories from the front lines of college access.

After a tumultuous rollout of the 2024-25 FAFSA, the Department of Education (ED) on Friday announced it will be enlisting a higher education and technology solutions expert to lead the rollout of next year’s FAFSA cycle. Additionally, ED has chosen to prioritize an October launch for the 2025-26 FAFSA over making large changes to the application, meaning the 2025-26 version will not be substantially different from the 2024-25 form and as a result will not require the standard notice and comment period.

Scenario: The school offers a gainful employment (GE) program that is offered in two modes of delivery: completely online or in-person. It also offers hybrid programs in which the student can take both residential (on-campus) classes and distance education (online) classes. Answer: No. According to guidance NASFAA has received from the U.S. Department of Education (ED), a hybrid program in which the student can take both residential and distance education classes is not exempt from the GE program length limitation under 34 CFR 668.14(b)(26). View the full answer to this question to learn more.

This month we have the pleasure of welcoming back the following institutions as NASFAA members: Centura College; Saint Joseph Seminary College; and Spa Tech Institute. We are glad to have all of you as NASFAA members. We encourage you to check out our Events Calendar for a look at upcoming professional development opportunities and to utilize NASFAA's Membership Directory, Speaker and Mentor Professional Directory, and Volunteer and Leadership Directory to help you better engage and connect with your financial aid peers across the country.

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