With the 2024 presidential election approaching, many students and parents are concerned about potential changes to federal financial aid programs, especially the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Rumors have been circulating that Donald Trump may eliminate or change FAFSA if re-elected. But is this true?
In this article, we’ll separate fact from fiction and analyze how Trump’s past policies, statements, and potential future plans could impact FAFSA and federal student aid.
Understanding FAFSA and Its Importance
FAFSA is a critical application process that allows students to qualify for:
- Federal Pell Grants (free money for college based on financial need)
- Subsidized and Unsubsidized Student Loans
- Work-Study Programs
- State and Institutional Aid
Millions of students rely on FAFSA to afford college, so any potential policy changes could have a significant impact.
Did Trump Try to Take Away FAFSA Before?
During his first term (2017-2021), Trump did not eliminate FAFSA, but he supported several policy changes related to student loans and financial aid, including:
- Simplifying the FAFSA Process – The Trump administration advocated for reducing the number of questions on the FAFSA form to make it easier to complete.
- Eliminating Subsidized Student Loans – In budget proposals, Trump suggested ending subsidized federal loans, which allow students to avoid interest while in school.
- Cuts to Federal Work-Study Programs – Trump proposed reducing funding for work-study programs in multiple budget plans.
- Changes to Income-Driven Repayment Plans – His administration aimed to consolidate repayment plans into a single option with different forgiveness timelines.
- Attempting to End Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) – Trump proposed eliminating PSLF, which forgives student loans for government and nonprofit employees after 10 years.
Will Trump Take Away FAFSA if Re-Elected?
While there is no official statement from Trump or his campaign about eliminating FAFSA, his past actions and policy positions suggest he may advocate for changes in federal student aid.
Possible Changes to FAFSA and Student Aid Under Trump
- FAFSA Simplification
- Trump has previously supported simplifying the FAFSA process, which could mean fewer questions but also potential reductions in eligibility for aid.
- Cuts to Pell Grants
- Past budget proposals under Trump included reducing funding for Pell Grants, which would limit aid for low-income students.
- Changes to Loan Forgiveness Programs
- Trump previously attempted to eliminate Public Service Loan Forgiveness and may attempt to do so again.
- Increased Privatization of Student Loans
- Trump has supported moving federal student loans to private lenders, which could make borrowing more expensive for students.
What Biden Has Done with FAFSA
Since taking office, President Joe Biden has made significant changes to FAFSA and student aid, including:
- FAFSA Simplification Act – Reducing the number of questions from over 100 to around 36.
- Expanding Pell Grant Eligibility – Increasing funding to help more low-income students.
- Temporary Student Loan Forgiveness – Implementing targeted loan forgiveness for certain borrowers.
- Proposing Free Community College – Though not passed, Biden has pushed for more financial aid options.
These changes highlight the contrast between Trump and Biden’s education policies, with Biden favoring increased aid and Trump advocating for reductions.
What Should Students and Families Do?
- Stay Informed – Watch for policy announcements from Trump and other presidential candidates.
- Complete FAFSA Early – Regardless of policy changes, applying for aid as soon as possible ensures maximum eligibility.
- Explore Alternative Funding Options – Look into scholarships, grants, and work-study to reduce reliance on loans.
- Be Aware of Political Changes – Elections impact education policy, so voting and staying informed is crucial.
Conclusion
While there is no official confirmation that Trump would eliminate FAFSA, his past policies suggest he may push for changes that could reduce federal student aid. Students and families should remain proactive in securing financial aid and understanding policy shifts that could affect their education.
Do you have concerns about FAFSA changes? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
