To provide awareness and enhance financial aid possibilities, Governor Doug Burgum proclaims April 21-27, 2024, Finish the FAFSA Week. Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) results in the eligibility for student financial aid. ND high school seniors and families have financial aid opportunities that may await them on their education journey.

It is critical to North Dakota workforce and economic development that ND students obtain postsecondary credentials or career training after high school. According to Governor Burgum, there are more than 50,000 students attending public, private, and tribal colleges in ND. The majority of first-time undergraduate students attending college in ND rely on financial aid to reach their educational goals. FAFSA is the gateway to qualifying for grants, work-study funds, and federal student loans as well as certain state-based aid to pay for college and career training programs.

All students and families are encouraged to complete their FAFSA application and unlock their financial opportunities. Lisa Anderson, DCB Financial Aid Coordinator, is providing free after-hours assistance until 7:00 pm on April 23 and 24 at the campus of Dakota College at Bottineau. Anderson reassures, “Currently the FAFSA process is down by about 40%, we want to make sure that all high-school seniors and returning students can complete their FAFSA form. We want to be available to help with any questions that have been raised with the new FAFSA process. The new form has made it easier to fill out and more students could be eligible for more financial aid.”