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ScholarNet. ScholarNet is a proven, lender-neutral private loan processing solution that automates certification and disbursement with fast, precise tools that cut down manual work. Support for the new 6-digit loan amount standard is coming soon to help ensure smooth, accurate processing as the industry transitions. Schedule your demo today!

With the start of the 2026-27 award year just under two months away, and final regulations being issued just last week, schools across the country are struggling to implement the sweeping changes made under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), prompting some financial aid professionals to warn that this condensed implementation timeline could lead to delays in the disbursement of aid to students.

NASFAA has updated its data sharing decision tree to reflect a more conservative reading of guidance issued earlier, in September 2025. In that guidance, ED removed language explicitly permitting institutions to share FAFSA/ISIR data with parents of dependent students, which had been permitted per earlier guidance issued in November 2024. While the more recent guidance does not explicitly prohibit this type of data sharing, the decision tree is updated so as not to imply explicit permission. Institutions should consult with legal counsel to determine their institution’s position on this topic.

New changes to Consumer Information requirements focus on increasing transparency, improving communication, and helping students make informed decisions about their education and finances. Institutions must proactively implement these updates to stay compliant and better support students. This upcoming webinar, today at 2 p.m. ET, will review the enhancements and test your knowledge of the requirements.

Registration for the 2026-27 cohort of NASFAA’s Executive Leadership Collective (ELC) opens this afternoon. This exclusive program offers seasoned financial aid leaders the opportunity to engage in high-level discussions with key stakeholders from Congress, federal agencies, and the higher education community. NASFAA’s ELC aims to build a community of experienced leaders dedicated to championing the financial aid profession while navigating the intersection of ethics, institutional stability, and advocacy. Don't miss this unique chance to collaborate with thought leaders in the field and help shape the future of financial aid. Use NASFAA’s justification language to advocate for participation. Learn more about the experience and requirements to participate.

Next week NASFAA's Annual Business Meeting will be conducted virtually, at 2 p.m. ET on May 13, immediately preceding the Policy Update Webinar. NASFAA's bylaws dictate that the association must meet annually for the purpose of transacting all business which may be brought before the membership. The meeting will include updates on NASFAA's financial status, FAAC® program, governance and oversight, and diversity efforts. The NASFAA Policy Update will include the latest updates on what's happening in Washington related to student aid policy. 

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