As high school seniors across Minnesota celebrate their graduations and look towards their futures, Normandale Community College stands ready to help students and their families navigate the complexities of paying for college.
With knowledgeable and caring staff, Normandale is committed to helping prospective students complete their financial aid applications and understand the myriad of options available to them.
This year, changes to the federal financial aid process have affected many graduating high school seniors. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), essential for securing federal loans, grants, and most college and state financial aid, is experiencing delays due to the largest overhaul of the federal financial aid process in forty years.
These months-long delays and technical issues with the online form have discouraged many students from submitting or completing the application while institutions can only now start processing financial aid information. As of May 24, 2024, only 42.5% of high school seniors nationwide have completed the FAFSA, with Minnesota trailing at 36.7%, according to the National College Attainment Network.
In response to this uncertainty, Normandale is stepping up as a community resource to support students during this critical time by training and deputizing more employees to help students and families navigate the challenges of the online financial aid application, even if the student does not plan to attend the College in the fall.
Accordingly, Normandale’s approach has steadily made progress in closing their financial application gap compared to state and national rates, now only down about 11% from last year’s application submission rates and closing.
"At Normandale, we understand the challenges that come with navigating the financial aid process, especially with this year's delays," said Susan Ant, Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships at Normandale Community College. "Our team is committed to providing personalized support and resources to ensure that every student has the opportunity to access the financial assistance they need for their education."
An opportunity to complete the financial aid application and explore academic programs is coming up at Normandale’s Open House on Tuesday, June 25, from 4-7 p.m. This event will offer guidance on FAFSA and the Minnesota Dream Act, alongside valuable insights into campus resources and the extensive array of over 70 degrees and certificates available at Normandale.
"Normandale strives to be a student-ready college that provides the information you need to prepare to be a successful college student. We are here to support you every step of the way," said Veronica Palafox, Director of Admissions at Normandale Community College. "Our goal is to ensure that all students have access to the resources they need to achieve their educational and career goals."
Members of the public are encouraged to attend the Open House on June 25 to discover how Normandale Community College can be your partner in achieving your academic and career goals. More information can be found on the Open House event webpage. For students still contemplating their college choices, Normandale offers both in-person and online information sessions, as well as one-on-one appointments with Admissions representatives, to address any questions.
About Normandale:
Normandale Community College, located in Bloomington, Minn. off highways 35W, 100 and 494, is the largest two-year college with over 14,000 enrolled students. Normandale offers over 70 degrees and certificates with a mission of cultivating a welcoming community, fostering every student’s talent and building an equitable world.
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