AIR, alongside 13 other organizations, submitted a letter today asking Congress to restore the use of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) data for institutional analysis and improvement. 

The letter acknowledges and appreciates legislative efforts to simplify the FAFSA process, specifically through the Fostering Undergraduate Talent by Unlocking Resources for Education (FUTURE) Act, FAFSA Simplification Act, and related amendments. However, it raises concerns that these reforms have unintentionally restricted the use of certain financial data collected through FAFSA, limiting access for institutions, states, researchers, and other stakeholders to essential data that supports students. The letter outlines the impact, such as restricted data usage for evaluating student needs, aligning aid programs, and accessing means-tested benefits like SNAP. It highlights disruptions to programs like TRIO and limitations on data usage that hinder student support services, research, and policy-making. The letter urges legislative action to restore the permissible uses of FAFSA data while protecting applicant privacy, emphasizing the importance of data-driven solutions for student affordability, accessibility, and success.

Read the full letter for more details.