Enhancing Educational Access and Success: The Impact of Implementing SF 1275 on FAFSA Completion Rates and Student Outcomes in Minnesota
Abstract
This research project, centered on Senate File 1275 (SF 1275), investigates the potential benefits of making Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completion a graduation requirement for all high school seniors in Minnesota. With an annual surplus of over $100 million in federal funds remaining untapped, this initiative behind SF 1275 aims to bridge the financial aid gap for students from diverse backgrounds, as well as show students there is much more education left for them after high school. By mandating FAFSA completion, the study anticipates an improvement in FAFSA completion rates, addressing Minnesota's current ranking of 39th in the nation. The research also explores the astronomical impact of SF 1275 on high school graduation rates and college admission rates, particularly for students of color. Through a comprehensive analysis of educational data and student outcomes, the study aims to demonstrate how FAFSA completion as a graduation requirement contributes not only to increased financial aid accessibility but also to heightened educational achievement. This project aligns with the broader goal of fostering equity in education by ensuring that students from all racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds have the necessary resources to pursue higher education. The findings of this research may drive policy decisions as well as educational strategies aimed at promoting inclusivity, boosting graduation rates, and ensuring a smooth transition into post-secondary education for Minnesota's graduating high school seniors.
College
College of Education
Department
Leadership Education - Graduate Studies
Campus
Winona
First Advisor/Mentor
Ron Strege
Location
Ballroom - Kryzsko Commons
Start Date
4-18-2024 10:00 AM
End Date
4-18-2024 11:00 AM
Presentation Type
Poster Session
Format of Presentation or Performance
In-Person
Session
1b=10am-11am
Poster Number
44
Enhancing Educational Access and Success: The Impact of Implementing SF 1275 on FAFSA Completion Rates and Student Outcomes in Minnesota
Ballroom - Kryzsko Commons
This research project, centered on Senate File 1275 (SF 1275), investigates the potential benefits of making Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completion a graduation requirement for all high school seniors in Minnesota. With an annual surplus of over $100 million in federal funds remaining untapped, this initiative behind SF 1275 aims to bridge the financial aid gap for students from diverse backgrounds, as well as show students there is much more education left for them after high school. By mandating FAFSA completion, the study anticipates an improvement in FAFSA completion rates, addressing Minnesota's current ranking of 39th in the nation. The research also explores the astronomical impact of SF 1275 on high school graduation rates and college admission rates, particularly for students of color. Through a comprehensive analysis of educational data and student outcomes, the study aims to demonstrate how FAFSA completion as a graduation requirement contributes not only to increased financial aid accessibility but also to heightened educational achievement. This project aligns with the broader goal of fostering equity in education by ensuring that students from all racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds have the necessary resources to pursue higher education. The findings of this research may drive policy decisions as well as educational strategies aimed at promoting inclusivity, boosting graduation rates, and ensuring a smooth transition into post-secondary education for Minnesota's graduating high school seniors.
