New survey sheds light on FAFSA and anxieties around paying for college

A new survey (sponsored by Discover Student Loans) was just released and focused on sentiment and awareness surrounding the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The insights in this survey are particularly timely given that the FAFSA application opens next Saturday, October 1.

Here are a few of the highlights from the survey results:

Over 70% of parents with college-bound children say they plan to fill out the FAFSA this year. 

58% of parents with college-bound students didn’t plan on applying for federal aid, but now have changed their minds. 

Nearly half of parents (47%) have never spoken to their child about the FAFSA or have only spoken to them about it 1-2 times  

55% of parents say they intend to use online FAFSA guides and resources, up five percentage points from 2021.

Over a quarter (26%) of parents said that understanding how to pay for college gives their child the most anxiety.

These are some great stats to discuss with your students and make sure they are discussing filling out the FAFSA with their parents.