Garden State Times

Legislation sponsored by Senator Bob Singer that would require students to complete financial aid applications to receive their high school diploma was approved by the Senate Education Committee. The bill, A-1181/S-2054, mandates that students must submit a financial aid application as a prerequisite for graduation from a public and charter school.

Senator Singer emphasized the importance of this legislation by stating, "The student financial aid crisis is growing by the minute and students applying to colleges need all the assistance they can get." He further explained, "Requiring students to complete financial aid applications as a prerequisite for graduation could make students more knowledgeable about their financial aid options. This legislation could make applying to colleges less strenuous for students, and their families, and could help applicants secure additional grants and scholarships."

The amended bill also includes provisions for exemptions, allowing students to be exempt if they submit a waiver from their parent or guardian or obtain authorization from their school counselor. Singer noted, "When students receive more financial aid through scholarships and grants they free themselves from having to take out excessive loans that may take decades to repay." The legislation aims to empower students to make more informed financial decisions when pursuing higher education.

Under the new requirements, starting from the 2022-2023 grade 11 class, students are expected to comply with the financial aid application process for the following two years. The bill also tasks the Executive Director of the Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESSA) to provide resources and guidance to parents, students, and school districts to facilitate the completion of financial aid applications.

This initiative by Senator Bob Singer seeks to alleviate the burden of student loans and increase access to financial aid for aspiring college students. The bill's approval by the Senate Education Committee marks a significant step towards implementing a new graduation requirement that aims to benefit students and their families in navigating the complexities of college affordability.