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 Gov. J.B Pritzker is touting Illinois’ top increase in the
percentage of high school students completing federal college aid applications,
but he doesn’t bother mentioning they had no choice.
“Last year, only 3 states in the nation actually increased their high school
FAFSA completion rates year over year. Who took the top slot? Illinois!”
Pritzker tweeted March 3.
The growth is really attributed to a new state law requiring Illinois students
to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to graduate. The
2020-2021 school year was the first impacted by the mandate.
In a press release, Pritzker announced more than 400 high
schools will receive a “recognition of excellence” banner honoring their
completion rates.
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Students can also fill out a waiver to opt-out, but
virtually all students choose FAFSA for the chance at financial aid
for college.
It’s great more students potentially have financial breathing room
in pursuing a college education, but filling out forms mandated by
the state is hardly something to brag about. That is, unless you are
seeking reelection and hope nobody notices the embellishment.
Maybe the state should have changed their motto for the effort to:
“Rock the FAFSA Illinois – or else.”
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