Education Department promises comprehensive evaluation of financial aid office following FAFSA mishap

The Department of Education is making significant changes to its Federal Student Aid office following a tumultuous rollout of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) this year. Secretary Miguel Cardona announced in a letter to staff members that the agency is conducting a comprehensive review of the office’s organization, management, staffing, and operations.

The department has brought in a team of information technology experts to assist with FAFSA next year and is working with the Boston Consulting Group to recommend improvements. Denise Carter has been appointed as the interim leader of FSA as the agency searches for a new executive.

Despite the challenges faced with this year’s FAFSA rollout, Federal Student Aid has processed all 10.3 million forms submitted as of May 29. The completion rate is down only 15.5% from last year, a significant improvement from the 40% drop in March.

Cardona emphasized the agency’s commitment to ensuring that all students have access to the resources they need for higher education. He welcomed guidance from the Office of the Inspector General and lawmakers as the agency works to implement transformational changes.

The improvements at the Federal Student Aid office come after months of delays and errors that disrupted decision timelines for students and schools nationwide. With these changes, the department aims to provide a smoother and more efficient process for students seeking financial aid for college.