UPDATE: FAFSA Beta Testing Phase #3 Underway
The preliminary results from FAFSA beta testing phase #3 are in, and mostly positive.
On November 6, the Department of Education (ED) released the first batch of data from the testing phase that began on November 1.
The reported information is positive.
As expected, there was a significant increase in the number of participating users. Despite this increase, completion time and user satisfaction ratings increased from the last numbers reported for testing phase #2.
–>>New Update Available on YouTube<<–
Ongoing FAFSA Corrections
Before phase # 3 began, ED reported correcting several, persistent known issues.
Having these issues resolved ahead of the start of phase #3 was timely, and no doubt contributed to the improved user experience.
First Data Sets for FAFSA Beta Testing #3
For comparison the last set of data provided for phase #2 is included.
We start with the number of students and contributors.
Over 8,000 additional students took part in the initial round of phase #3 testing. This is in line with ED’s published timeline.
Next, we’ll look at the user experience satisfaction ratings.
Although the increases are modest for both “Satisfaction” and “Reasonable time,” with triple the number of users, any increase should be viewed as a success.
…and finally, applications that were processed and forwarded to financial aid offices at institutions of higher education (IHE). ISIR is short for Institutional Student Information Report.
This category is more difficult to judge. The numbers appear to be tracking in the wrong direction, but the next update should present a clear picture.
For now, we are reserving analysis.
What’s Next?
Testing phase #3 concludes in a few days. The fourth and final testing phase will begin immediately after the end of phase #3
There is more data to collect and report from subsequent sessions of phase #3, but this early report is very encouraging.
With this latest report, we are cautiously optimistic that a December 1 release of a functional FAFSA seems not only possible but reasonable.
Don’t expect perfection because with multiple systems and software communicating there will always be a few hiccups.
Leave the past in the past
The reported news and user experience for all involved parties regarding the 2024-25 FAFSA was horrendous. It appears the experience this year will be a vast improvement over the last one.
The FAFSA is the gateway to higher education for many students providing access to not only Pell Grants, but also state aid, institutional aid, and private scholarships.
Please leave a comment below letting us know what you expect from the 2025-26 FAFSA.
