CFK helps with federal student aid application amid challenges with new system

Two FAFSA Workshops open to all, not just CFK-bound students

The entrance to CFK’s Key West Campus

KEY WEST, FL, April 26, 2024—In response to ongoing challenges and delays associated with the rollout of the new 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) is helping incoming and returning college students and their families to navigate the new process. Two FAFSA Workshops will be held virtually on Wednesday, May 8 and Thursday, May 30 at 5:30 p.m. These events are open to all, including individuals who do not plan to attend CFK. Students can sign up for a workshop on the College’s website at CFK.edu/paying-for-college/financial-aid. The FAFSA determines eligibility for various federal aid including Pell Grants, loans, and work-study programs, critical to helping millions of students afford college. It is also required for many other scholarships and aid opportunities.
 
During the FAFSA Workshops, CFK’s Financial Aid team will walk through the entire FAFSA process, offering tips and strategies to ensure a smooth and successful application. Additionally, they will cover common pitfalls, eligibility requirements, and the various types of financial aid available. To maximize the assistance provided at the workshop, attendees are asked to create a FAFSA account beforehand at FAFSA.gov and to avoid any similar-looking websites without a .gov domain.
 
The new FAFSA is redesigned to be simpler. It is able to better assess students’ financial need but has been fraught with months of delays and system glitches. As a result, many students are still waiting for their application to be processed and many more are delaying or foregoing applying for financial aid or college admission altogether.
 
“We don’t want to see anyone deter their plans to pursue higher education—whether it be at CFK or elsewhere—because of the FAFSA delays,” said Lana Gaspari, CFK Vice President of Advancement. “We understand that students are frustrated. We are using all options to help our students and community access aid and move forward with their plans this fall.”
 
Beyond federal aid, CFK offers other resources to help students pay for college, including scholarships and payment plans. Additionally, the College has not increased tuition in over a decade.
 
Those who cannot attend the FAFSA Workshops are encouraged to contact CFK’s Financial Aid Office at 305-809-3523 or [email protected] for assistance.