By Manha Masood
As conversations around higher education evolve, financial aid remains a central concern for students and families. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) plays a critical role in determining eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs, making it a key factor in college affordability. Over the years, policies surrounding FAFSA have shifted under different administrations, including during Donald Trump’s presidency, which saw several changes to federal student aid and higher education policies.
During Trump’s first time in office, there were efforts to streamline the FAFSA process, aiming to make it more accessible and less time-consuming. The administration supported legislation that simplified the application by reducing the number of required questions, making it easier for students to apply for aid. However, Trump also proposed significant budget cuts to the Department of Education, which raised concerns about reduced funding for federal grants and loan forgiveness programs. His administration attempted to eliminate subsidized student loans and cut funding for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which provides relief for borrowers working in government and nonprofit sectors.
Another major focus was deregulation in higher education, particularly regarding for-profit colleges. The Trump administration rolled back Obama-era policies that held for-profit institutions accountable for student outcomes, such as the “gainful employment” rule, which measured whether graduates earned enough to justify their student debt. Critics argued that these changes benefited for-profit colleges, at the expense of students who might be left with high debt and limited job prospects.
FAFSA and financial aid continue to be pressing issues, especially as the rising cost of college places greater strain on students. While some of Trump’s proposed cuts did not pass through Congress, his policies reflected broader debates on the role of government in funding higher education. As discussions about student debt relief and FAFSA reforms continue, the long-term impact of these policy shifts remains a key concern for students navigating the financial realities of college.