College Career Counseling Notice image

2024–25 FAFSA Issue Alerts: Open Issues and Workarounds — As counselors and students are aware, there are still technical issues within the FAFSA system, preventing numerous applicants from completing the form. Callers to the hotline have encountered hours-long hold times, and many report being disconnected without warning. Reaching a human being may not help since so many issues remain unresolved. For now, the only option that may provide a quick answer is the U.S. ED’s full list of open issues and workarounds at https://fsapartners.ed.gov/knowledge-center/topics/fafsa-simplification-information/2024-25-fafsa-issue-alerts. Users must click on an open issue to expand it and see the suggested workaround. Not all open issues have workarounds presently. Any resolved issues are also posted, underneath the open list.” Received and posted 2/15/24 11:00 AM PST


In conjunction with the Columbia College Financial Aid Office, Bret Harte will host two FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) workshops for the Class of 2024 students and families. This is an opportunity to get all questions answered and complete the FAFSA on-site with the assistance of financial aid representatives. The workshops are scheduled for Tuesday, January 30 and Tuesday, February 6 in the Learning Center. Register online for a time slot beginning at 4:00 PM at FAFSAWORKSHOPS24.

In advance preparation, utilize the Motherlode Educational Opportunity Center (MEOC)'s informational flyer. In addition, it would be beneficial to complete the Mother Lode Opportunity Center Application prior to your scheduled workshop.

To learn more about the FAFSA, visit https://studentaid.gov. Questions, email Ms. Godfrey or stop by RM 27.