arne duncan

College-Bound Students Can Fill Out Their FAFSA Forms 3 Months Earlier Starting Next Year

College-Bound Students Can Fill Out Their FAFSA Forms 3 Months Earlier Starting Next Year

Each year Consumerist reminds college-bound students and their families that billions of dollars in college aid will go unclaimed because so many people won’t take the time to fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid [FAFSA] form. But a new initiative by the Department of Education aims to change that by revamping the application process: starting it earlier and making it easier to fill out. [More]

When Comparing Colleges, It Would Help To Know If A School Is Under Investigation

When Comparing Colleges, It Would Help To Know If A School Is Under Investigation

Many consumers thinking of pursuing a higher education weigh the pros and the cons of a specific college: tuition, convenience, available areas of study. Last month, the Department of Education announced it would make the college shopping experience a little easier for prospective students by creating a consumer-facing online college comparison system. While the tool will no doubt be helpful, consumer advocates warn that, as it stands, the system will be missing a vital information: whether or not schools are party to investigation, lawsuits or settlements over harmful and deceptive practices. [More]

Congress Takes Another Stab At Undercutting Gainful Employment Rules Two Weeks Before Implementation

Congress Takes Another Stab At Undercutting Gainful Employment Rules Two Weeks Before Implementation

The Department of Education’s long-awaited gainful employment rules – aimed at reining in the for-profit college industry – go into effect on July 1. But just because there are only 14 days before implementation, doesn’t mean those opposed to the regulations are giving up their fight. [More]

(Tim schreier)

Senators Urge Dept. Of Education To Provide Support To Students Affected By Corinthian Colleges Closure

Ever since now-bankrupt Corinthian Colleges Inc. began its downward spiral, consumer advocates, students and legislators have urged the powers that be to provide relief for students of Everest University, Heald College and WyoTech. Today, that plea continued as nine senators called on the Department of Education to provide support to the 16,000 students affected by the company’s final closure. [More]