What's Happening?
The National Council for College Access and Success (NCAN) is advocating for significant changes to federal higher education funding and policies following recent midterm elections. NCAN is pushing for the swift passage of a fiscal year (FY) 2027 appropriations
bill that would address a projected $15 billion Pell Grant shortfall and include a $50 increase in the maximum award. This increase is sought without any cuts to loan subsidies, student aid, or Pell eligibility, aiming to allow colleges and universities to finalize student aid offers promptly. Additionally, NCAN is urging Congress to restore the Congressional Budget Office's access to federal tax information for accurate cost projections. Throughout the new Congress, NCAN plans to advocate for doubling the maximum Pell Grant award by FY 2032, ensuring the security of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and providing Federal Student Aid (FSA) with necessary resources and leadership to improve its services.
Why It's Important?
These advocacy efforts are crucial for enhancing college affordability and accessibility for U.S. students, particularly those from historically underrepresented groups. The Pell Grant program is a cornerstone of federal student aid, and addressing its shortfall and increasing the maximum award would directly benefit millions of low- and middle-income students, making higher education more attainable. Ensuring the security and efficiency of the FAFSA process is vital for timely and accurate financial aid distribution, which can significantly impact students' decisions to enroll and persist in college. Furthermore, strengthening FSA's resources and leadership is essential for the effective administration of federal student aid programs. The proposed changes aim to drive economic mobility for students and families, contributing to a stronger American workforce and economy by reducing financial barriers to postsecondary education.
What's Next?
NCAN will continue its advocacy efforts as Congress wraps up its current legislative session and throughout the new Congress beginning in January. A key immediate focus is the passage of the FY 2027 appropriations bill before the expiration of the continuing budget resolution on December 11. NCAN will also work to restore the Congressional Budget Office's access to federal tax information during the lame-duck session. In the long term, the organization will push for doubling the maximum Pell Grant award by FY 2032 and safeguarding the FAFSA process. NCAN also plans to engage with new state leaders, including governors and legislators, to protect state investments in higher education and improve pathways from college to career, while also defending access for undocumented students.
Beyond the Headlines
The push for increased Pell Grant funding and FAFSA security reflects a broader national conversation about the value and accessibility of higher education in the U.S. Chronic underfunding and complex aid processes can exacerbate educational inequality, limiting opportunities for talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds. NCAN's advocacy highlights the systemic challenges within the federal student aid framework and the need for sustained political will to address them. The emphasis on accurate cost projections and transparent information for students underscores a commitment to consumer protection and informed decision-making in higher education. Success in these areas could lead to a more equitable and robust higher education system, fostering a more skilled workforce and reducing student debt burdens, ultimately benefiting the national economy and social mobility.
