To Process or Not Reprocess? Is It Even A Question?

In the days and hours since the release of the Department of Education's electronic announcement related to reprocessing ISIRs, NASFAA has heard the concerns from members loud and clear. We understand the downstream impacts and ramifications of the department's current plan, and NASFAA staff have been and continue to be engaged in constructive conversations with the department on a plan for total reprocessing - if it can be done in a timely way. Stay tuned to NASFAA's "Off the Cuff" podcast and our FAFSA Simplification web center for the latest discussions and updates.

Publication Date: 4/4/2024

Michael B | 4/4/2024 12:22:55 PM

While it is acknowledged that the Department of Education (ED) may assume schools intend to proceed with incorrect data on FAFSAs that are not automatically reprocessed, this approach undermines the integrity and accuracy of the financial aid process. Relying on incorrect information could significantly impact students' access to essential financial aid resources, potentially leading to unfair distribution of funds and hindering students' ability to pursue higher education. Students and families rely on the FAFSA to accurately reflect their financial circumstances, and any errors or inaccuracies in this process could have far-reaching consequences.

Eric M | 4/4/2024 11:34:57 AM

It would seem this could be rephrased "To do our job or not do our job?" We preach equity in every university and college in America. In what way is this equitable? This is not giving students what they need. All of this upheaval and redesign was supposed to be done for the benefit of students and to ensure that more people were getting Pell grant eligibility. How can we possibly expect this to benefit students when ED is giving out inaccurate information?!
ED does audits on schools to ensure that policies and procedures are being followed, yet when it comes to their own department needing to follow through with policies and procedures, they sweep it under the rug and/ or pass the buck.

Sarah W | 4/4/2024 11:12:15 AM

I know Professional Judgement is supposed to be on a case-by-case basis, but can we just flag every ISIR for PJ so ED has to reprocess them all? They are breaking the law, so why can't we bend it?

Karrie H | 4/4/2024 10:59:21 AM

ED is passing the buck. Their plan does not consider institutional need-based dollars or state funding. Maybe I'm wrong. It seems that ED has not given any thought to how not reprocessing ISIRs affects other checkbooks.

Joshua M | 4/4/2024 10:47:06 AM

time to shut down the dept of ed and start over. "i'm from the government and I'm hear to help!"

Sean R | 4/4/2024 10:14:25 AM

It's literally conflicting information to award based on a miscalculation. If the tables were turned ED would fine schools for awarding with a known obvious conflict.

Richard O | 4/4/2024 9:54:56 AM

How is it right to allow students to potentially get a higher Pell Grant amount this year than they would get in a year when processing is done correctly. Just does not feel right.

Tara V | 4/4/2024 9:12:31 AM

I feel like we have to reprocess. It feels unethical to me to have some correct and some incorrect, even if ED does not see it that way.

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To Process or Not Reprocess? Is It Even A Question?

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