The future of FAFSA is uncertain as the Trump Administration considers dismantling the Department of Education, potentially impacting students' access to federal financial aid. Rich Nickel, President and CEO of Education Forward Arizona, joined Arizona Horizon to discuss the importance of FAFSA and the critical role it plays in higher education funding.

Nickel emphasized that FAFSA is the primary gateway for students to access Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study programs. Beyond federal aid, FAFSA also connects students to institutional scholarships, making college more affordable. He warned that without FAFSA, many students may lose access to essential financial support, jeopardizing their ability to pursue higher education.