Arizona FAFSA Challenge
The Arizona FAFSA Challenge is a statewide initiative designed to increase FAFSA completions in our state.
The Arizona FAFSA Challenge highlights the exceptional efforts that schools are making to encourage their seniors to complete this critical form. The significance of FAFSA completion directly impacts a student’s access to higher education opportunities. Those who complete the FAFSA are more likely to enroll in college, persist in their coursework, and successfully obtain a degree.
As part of the Arizona FAFSA Challenge, the Arizona Board of Regents plans to host FAFSA informational webinars for school leaders this fall. Sign up for the FAFSA Challenge to receive information, resources and access to these webinars to help high school seniors complete the FAFSA.
The 2023-24 FAFSA Challenge run from December 31-April 12.
Arizona FAFSA completion goal
- Achieve a 50% FAFSA completion rate for the Arizona high school class of 2024.
- Challenge each Arizona high school to increase its FAFSA completion rate by 5 percent compared to last year.
Upcoming Counselor Webinar Events
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Event
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Description
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Date
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Time
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Register
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FAFSA Overview for New Counselors
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Join us for a virtual training designed specifically for new (or those new to working with Seniors) counselors, college/career advisors, and anyone eager to master the Free Application for Federal Sudent Aid(FAFSA) process.
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Oct 31st
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10 am - 11 am
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What to Expect with the 2025-26 FAFSA
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Get ready for the 2025-26 FAFSA with this concise, informative webinar. We’ll cover the key changes, updated deadlines, and new eligibility requirements for the upcoming FAFSA cycle. Learn strategies to help students and families navigate these updates and ensure a smooth application process. Prepare yourself with the tools and knowledge needed to support your students through FAFSA completion!
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Nov 7th
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10 am - 11 am
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Next Steps to Success: Guiding Students After FAFSA Submission
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FAFSA submission is just the beginning! Join us for this webinar to learn how to guide your students through the next critical steps in the financial aid process. We’ll cover what happens after submission, how to help students track their applications, understand financial aid offers, and navigate verification if required. Equip yourself with the tools and tips to ensure students stay on track for college success after hitting "submit”.
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Nov 14th
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10 am - 11 am
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Arizona College Connect: New Features and System Enhancements
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Unlock the power of FAFSA data to elevate your outreach efforts and guide students on their journey to college. In this session, you’ll discover the latest updates and enhancements to the FAFSA database, including new tools for email and text communication with students, insights into your high school's ranking in the AZ FAFSA Challenge, and other system improvements. Learn actionable strategies to leverage this data for crafting targeted communication plans, engaging families, and providing timely, personalized support.
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Nov 21st
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10 am - 11 am
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Resources
Preparing for the better FAFSA form
September 7, 2023
Before The FAFSA
October 26, 2023
FAFSA 101: Form overview and pell eligibility
November 2, 2023
FAFSA 201: After the FAFSA
November 9, 2023
Arizona College connect: New FAFSA Database Enhancements and Updates
November 16, 2023
- FSA ID Creation Resource. Download
- Pell Look-up Tables. Download
- FAFSA Simplification Fact Sheet. Download
- A Practitioner’s Guide to Reporting Assets on the FAFSA. Download
- 2024-25 FAFSA Prototype URL. Visit
- Federal Student Aid Estimator. Visit
- Is My Parent a Contributor When I fill Out My FAFSA Form? Visit
Awards and recognition
To commend and highlight the efforts of high schools involved, the Arizona FAFSA Challenge recognizes and honors schools each year at the conclusion of the FAFSA season. These accolades celebrate their exceptional contributions as leaders in FAFSA completion, both in terms of their overall performance and year-over-year progress. Through this recognition, the program encourages a healthy spirit of competition among educational institutions, fostering an environment where students receive the necessary support and guidance to confidently pursue their higher education dreams.
