Ranking Member Robert C. "Bobby" Scott (VA-03) made the following statement on President Obama's plan for an earlier, easier process for students to assess their eligibility for federal financial aid. Ranking Member Scott joined President Obama and Secretary Duncan in Iowa for the announcement today:
"The President's announced changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will significantly improve access to an affordable college education for many students and families. Starting October 1, 2016, students will have the opportunity to fill out their FAFSA forms three months earlier and include income tax information from two years prior. Through these reforms, more students will be able to qualify for federal financial aid and receive an earlier, more accurate picture of what they can afford. This is a good step forward for students and their families as they plan their college careers."