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Ocelot. Get insight into modern trends in student behavior that enable institutions to develop the appropriate engagement and support strategies to drive FAFSA completions and increase student success. Download report. 

The Department of Education (ED) negotiated rulemaking subcommittee on prison education programs (PEP) resumed Monday, as higher education stakeholders convened to review ED’s amended regulatory text on how PEPs will operate based on the subcommittee’s first set of recommendations. Subcommittee members are tasked with discussing and working on several definitions related to the program’s administration and participant eligibility. ED will use those recommendations to shape its regulatory framework, which subcommittee members will present to the full committee next month.

The P&P Builder template for the 2021-22 award year was released in July and it provides references to guidance related to the COVID-19 national emergency, as well as any regulatory changes effective July 1, 2021. However, since the publication of the P&P Builder template, an additional Federal Register with early implementation was released, though the regulations will not be effective for all until July 1, 2022.

As the Veterans Day federal holiday approaches, NASFAA would like to extend a heartfelt message of appreciation to all of our military veterans, including those in the NASFAA membership and the student veterans many financial aid professionals serve. Thank you for your sacrifice and your service! Members of the military and veterans face unique opportunities and challenges in their quest to obtain a postsecondary education. Whether you have served personally, or work with student veterans on campus, thank you for all you do.

First up on NASFAA U's 2022 schedule is Return of Title IV Funds. This four-week interactive course, perfect for both new and seasoned financial aid professionals, provides an overview of R2T4 regulations, including new regulations that went into effect on July 1, 2021. Course participants will learn what happens to Title IV funds when a student withdraws before completing the period of enrollment, withdrawal from programs offered in modules, and how to apply the R2T4 formula to calculate the amount the school must return to the Title IV programs, or the amounts the student could receive as post-withdrawal disbursement. Upon passing the course, you will receive complimentary access to the credential test. This class will sell out — reserve your seat now.

Interested in learning more about NASFAA's Certified Financial Aid Administrator Program? View this recorded facilitated discussion to hear directly from FAACs as they describe their own experience becoming certified. Panelists Ashley Edens, Mike Johnson, and Heidi Kovalick share insights into why they pursued this certification, how they prepared for the knowledge exam, what the testing experience was like, and how they believe the designation will benefit them in the future. If you're interested in becoming certified, verify your eligibility using our free interactive tool.

In July 2021, NASFAA joined the Double Pell Alliance (DPA), a coalition of higher education associations, organizations, and advocacy groups committed to doubling the maximum Pell Grant by the 50th anniversary of the creation of the program in June 2022. Our national advocacy campaign is ongoing and we need your help to explain to lawmakers that doubling the Pell Grant represents a sustainable, front-end, and long-term solution to college access and affordability issues impacting lower-income students. Register now and join us November 12 for a free webinar where we will discuss strategic communications tactics that will help your institution get involved in this nationwide advocacy effort for equity.

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