Free Boot Camp Held to Boost Students’ Federal Aid Applications

by Sharon Aron Baron February 12, 2024

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By Sharon Aron Baron

Broward County Public Schools and Bridge 2 Life are joining forces to address the underutilization of federal financial aid among high school seniors in Broward County by launching a free FAFSA Boot Camp aimed at demystifying the process of completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

The Boot Camp takes place on Tuesday, February 13, 2024 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Boyd Anderson High School Auditorium, 3050 N.W. 41st Street, Lauderdale Lakes, FL.

According to the district, the initiative comes in response to the significant changes and delays in the FAFSA application process, which now begins in December instead of October.

Daniel Barkowitz, a nationally recognized financial expert, will lead the boot Camp, offering step-by-step instructions on filling out the newly revised FAFSA form.

The event promises not only invaluable guidance but also dinner and a $20 e-gift card incentive for high school seniors who complete their FAFSA form on-site.

This effort is crucial, as millions of dollars in federal aid have historically gone unclaimed in Florida, with early data indicating a worrying 57% drop in FAFSA submissions for the class of 2024.

The revised FAFSA process, highlighted by its first-come, first-served nature, aims to simplify application procedures and expand eligibility for more students, particularly benefiting those from low-income households.

With the maximum Pell Grant award for the 2023-24 academic year set at $7,395, over 113,245 additional Florida students could access more than $800 million in federal aid.

This expansion is especially significant in light of the U.S. Department of Education’s estimate that 150,000 more Florida students will qualify for Pell Grants this year.

The event organizers underscore the importance of the early application to maximize potential aid. Attendance is limited, and reservations are required to ensure personal guidance from advisors. Also, bring your laptop or cellphone.

The initiative represents a critical step towards removing barriers to financial aid completion and ensuring that more students in Broward County can pursue their postsecondary educational goals without financial hindrance.

Secure your spot today by visiting EventBrite.

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Sharon Aron Baron

Sharon Aron Baron is the Editor of Tamarac Talk, Coral Springs Talk, Margate Talk, Coconut Creek Talk and Parkland Talk. Tamarac Talk was created in 2011 to provide News for the residents of Tamarac and is the #1 News Source for Residents.