U.S. Department of Education Sessions & Ask a Fed

NASFAA is pleased to have staff from the U.S. Department of Education (ED) join us in Milwaukee. Below is a listing of the sessions offered as well as "Ask a Fed" information.

Ask a Fed

The "Ask a Fed" table in the Exhibit/Innovation Hall will allow attendees to discuss Title IV-related questions, such as policy guidance, administrative procedures, and operational requirements, with an experienced ED staff member. The Ask A Fed table will be open during Exhibit/Innovation Hall hours on Monday and Tuesday. 

Sessions

Note: The schedule below is subject to change. Please view our Full Schedule for the most up-to-date information.

Monday, June 17

Access, Disclosure, and Use Guidance of FAFSA and Federal Tax Information (FTI) Data

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. 

This session will examine recent statutory changes made to the access, use, and disclosure of FAFSA data and federal tax information (FTI) use under the FUTURE Act and FAFSA Simplification Act. The session will provide an overview of statutory provisions and changes from the former Section 483(a)(3)(E) provision and restriction of FAFSA data use for the application, award, and administration of aid programs, as well as examine how new statutory provisions intersect with FERPA requirements. The session will conclude with FAQs and time will be devoted to address questions and concerns on the topic of FAFSA/ FTI data use.

An Overview of Gainful Employment and Reporting Requirements (REPEATED)

11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 

In this session, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) will provide an overview of the Financial Value Transparency and Gainful Employment regulations being implemented on July 1, 2024 with an emphasis on the new reporting requirements for institutions.  

SAI Deep Dive and Pell Implications

3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

The U.S. Department of Education (ED) will present information and updates on the calculation of the Student Aid Index.  You will hear from policy experts on topics like eligibility criteria for a Pell Grant, proportional award calculations, and generating scheduled Pell Grant awards for the award years beginning with 2024-25.

Tuesday, June 18

Address by Federal Student Aid (FSA) Chief Operating Officer Richard Cordray & U.S. Department of Education Federal Update

8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Join Federal Student Aid Chief Operating Officer Richard Cordray as he discusses the significant changes happening across the Title IV programs, including the redesign of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form and processing; expanded access to financial aid; the return to repayment for all student loan borrowers after the prolonged payment pause; the substantial expansion of loan forgiveness programs and improved repayment options; and new enhancements to the systems that financial aid professionals use.

Following Mr. Cordray, U.S. Department of Education (ED) will present information and updates about Title IV activities and initiatives, including information about ED’s regulatory efforts, major operational updates, and reminders.

Unpacking the Development of Cost of Attendance: Findings, Changes & Discussions

11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. 

In this session, findings from a recent study — "Exploring the Development and Decision-Making Process of Cost of Attendance at American Colleges and Universities" — will be presented along with COA changes under FAFSA simplification. Following the presentation, a forum will be provided for colleagues (or panel) to discuss COA development best practices and strategies.

What’s New in Administrative Capability

1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

In this session, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) will summarize and explain the new regulatory requirements for administrative capability and certification procedures effective July 1, 2024. The session will cover new requirements for financial aid awards, program length restrictions, and changes to the process for validating high school diplomas.

An Overview of Gainful Employment and Reporting Requirements (REPEATED)

3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

In this session, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) will provide an overview of the Financial Value Transparency and Gainful Employment regulations being implemented on July 1, 2024 with an emphasis on the new reporting requirements for institutions.