As we continue to see a slow yet steady increase in Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completions across the nation this summer, many students and families are still dealing with the spillover effects from the delayed opening of this year's
form. In fact, the national completion rate for the 2024-25 FAFSA is trailing by about 11% compared to last year. To address this critical issue and ensure that
students have the support they need to secure funding for their postsecondary education, the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) is launching an unprecedented initiative
- the FAFSA Telethon, or "FAFSAthon."
With Kentucky experiencing an even steeper FAFSA completion decline at 13%, this innovative event is designed to provide comprehensive, accessible support through a 12-hour live stream, featuring
expert guidance, engaging activities, and a vibrant array of entertainment. So, how does it work?
What: For 12 hours straight, the KHEAA team will live stream the FAFSA telethon event with free programming and direct support (including bilingual support) from FAFSA experts via walk-ins, call-ins, text-ins, and Zoom-ins. Programming
includes:
Celebrity guests
Games (basketball, cornhole, inflatable Skee-Ball, Jenga)
Entertainment (live televised games featuring walk-in guests, KHEAA staff, and others)
Tons of prizes and giveaways
Student testimonials
Free catered snacks all day long
A sunset movie on the roof of the castle
When: Tuesday, August 13, from 11 AM-11 PM ET
Where: Those who can’t attend in person can receive guidance via phone, text, or Zoom from KHEAA’s FAFSA experts available for the entirety of the event. Participants who join the FAFSAthon virtually are also eligible for hourly prize
drawings. The entire event can be live streamed via all of KHEAA’s social media channels (Facebook, Instagram,
YouTube).
Who: Every student and family in need of help, guidance, or assistance to complete the 2024-25 FAFSA in Kentucky and nationwide.
How [can you support?]: Spread the word! With over 75 volunteers ready to provide 12 hours of FAFSA support to students, KHEAA’s FAFSAthon will provide both in-person and virtual assistance to students across the country. Please contact
Casi Benedict or Keith Ritchie with any questions about how you can involve folx from your states and communities in the event.
With a goal of helping at least 120 students and families in every county in Kentucky and as many states as possible, KHEAA’s efforts are a reminder that it’s not too late for students and families to complete the FAFSA in anticipation of the 2024-25 academic year. As the FAFSAthon quickly approaches, help us spread the word and encourage your students and families to join KHEAA on August 13. Together, we can get closer
to closing the FAFSA completion gap and ensure every student has the resources to achieve their academic and career goals.
This event is made possible through federal funding KHEAA received to increase the number of students in Kentucky who complete a 2024-25 FAFSA.
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