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This week on "Off The Cuff," Beth and Karen are joined by Megan and Jill to discuss multiple updates from the Department of Education (ED). Karen kicks off the episode by debriefing listeners on ED’s Dear Colleague Letter (DCL) that directed institutions to cease using race preferences as a factor in admissions, financial aid, hiring, training, and other institutional programming, or be at risk of losing federal funding. Megan then discusses the latest updates with income-driven repayment (IDR) plans, including ED taking down the online application for the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) program and other income-based plans.

The Department of Education (ED) has begun processing batch corrections for both the 2024-25 and 2025-26 FAFSA cycles, having completed its beta testing period marking the first time that institutions will be able to utilize the process since the implementation of FAFSA Simplification.

Join the Voices of NASFAA community on LinkedIn Live this Women's History Month for a special event celebrating the contributions of women in our field. We're honored to welcome Gena Boling, Keri Gilbert, Kemmoree Duncombe, FAAC®, and Danielle Hayden for a dynamic discussion about their work, impact, and visions for the future of financial aid. This is an opportunity to connect with fellow professionals, reflect on the significance of Women's History Month, and celebrate the power of women's leadership in higher education. Tune in on March 14 at 1 p.m. ET.

Maximize your FAAC® recertification points (RPs) by logging each activity in your certification dashboard promptly. If you can’t update your dashboard right away, be sure to save the documentation you’ll need. For example, if you attended the 2024 Virtual FSA Training Conference (FSATC), access to your certificate of attendance expires — forever — on March 6, 2025. With only one week left, be sure to secure your certificate today (see these FAQs). Need a recertification strategy? Feel free to contact us. Not certified yet? Explore your eligibility using our free, interactive tool and apply online.

Check out the latest Movers & Shakers updates. Celebrate your own career developments by completing the "Movers and Shakers" form to share the news with your colleagues.

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