�����鶹��ѿ�

�����鶹��ѿ�is leading the way in an innovative peer-to-peer coaching model increasing Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completions, a critical first step toward college enrollment. The nationally recognized Peer Coaching Program led by the �����鶹��ѿ� continues to yield noticeable FAFSA completion rates year-over-year and is inspiring other states to follow suit.

Increasing FAFSA participation is more important than ever with �����鶹��ѿ�lagging the nation in college degree completion. Completing the FAFSA unlocks millions of dollars in federal, state and institutional aid that otherwise goes unused — funding that can make higher education more accessible and affordable for thousands of �����鶹��ѿ�students.

Arizona’s high school class of 2023 in federal Pell Grant funding on the table simply by not submitting their FAFSAs. Due to federal technical glitches, the 2024 estimate is expected to be much larger. To reverse this trend, ABOR scaled the FAFSA Peer Coaching Program statewide. Now operating in 40 high schools across metro Phoenix and Tucson schools, the program trains students as peer coaches to help their classmates navigate the FAFSA process, answer questions and break down misconceptions.

"While we have many initiatives to support students and families with the FAFSA application, this peer-to-peer model is delivering exciting and impactful results,” said ABOR Chair Cecilia Mata. “Our goal is to expand the program to all corners of Arizona, and we are eager to share this successful approach with other states so even more students can benefit.”

A model for success

The model’s success is clear — since its expansion in 2022, the number of schools participating has increased by 67% and FAFSA completion rates are rising. The board is actively developing partnerships to expand the program to all public high schools in Pima and Coconino counties, with the goal of reaching even more students across the state. Now, other states — including Maryland, Wyoming, Florida and South Dakota — are considering similar peer coaching models after learning of Arizona’s success.

ABOR’s FAFSA initiatives extend beyond peer coaching. �����鶹��ѿ�was selected by the U.S. Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid Office as a beta tester for the 2025-26 FAFSA application process, ensuring students can more easily access financial aid. In partnership with the �����鶹��ѿ�Cactus League, ABOR also rewards high school seniors who complete their FAFSA with spring training tickets at no cost. Gov. Katie Hobbs has further underscored the importance of this effort by in Arizona. In 2024, ABOR from the U.S. Department of Education, administered by the Education Credit Management Corporation, to sustain and grow FAFSA completion efforts. 

Creating a culture of FAFSA awareness

At high schools across the state, peer coaches are finding creative ways to get their classmates engaged.

With the Macarena playing, dancing, a piñata and more, a peer coaching event at Red Mountain High School in Mesa in December looked more like a party than a financial aid workshop. Students gathered in the library with music, games, raffles and even a giant dollar bill photo prop to celebrate every completed FAFSA. At its core, the event was about breaking down barriers to financial aid. Peer coach Anastasia Pham moved through the room, helping students complete their applications on school-provided laptops, while fellow peer coach Madison Culkins scanned for raised hands from classmates needing extra assistance. Every time a FAFSA was submitted, the room erupted in cheers.

"After I received training from ABOR staff, I realized how important FAFSA is for getting financial aid," said Pham. "Now I’m helping other students fill out the application. It’s the easiest way to access funding for college, and I want everyone to know about it."

In September, 190 peer coaches from 40 schools gathered at the ABOR FAFSA Coalition Symposium to prepare for the school year. They committed to organizing peer-focused events, running social media campaigns and directly supporting their classmates — all in exchange for a small stipend funded by ABOR. The board will convene the symposium again this fall, with hopes of more peer coaches attending the event for training and exchanging ideas.

"The goal is to help every high school in the state improve their FAFSA completion rates," said Julie Sainz, ABOR’s director of FAFSA and college access initiatives, who helped pioneer the program. "Our peer coaching schools see firsthand the impact of this program. We continue to add new schools while maintaining strong participation from existing ones, which is a testament that this model works.”

Sainz added, “These students know what their peers want to see and what grabs their attention. It’s inspiring to see the creativity they bring to making FAFSA completion a priority on their campuses.” 

Moving the needle on college access

By increasing FAFSA completions, ABOR is advancing college access in �����鶹��ѿ�and ensuring more students take advantage of financial aid opportunities. As this peer coaching model continues to gain national attention, �����鶹��ѿ�is proving that innovative, student-centered solutions can drive real change in higher education enrollment and affordability. 

�����鶹��ѿ�does not have a state deadline for submitting the FAFSA application. To qualify for ABOR's , which covers tuition and fees at the state's three public universities, students must submit their FAFSA by the priority date of April 1. Students looking for more information on how to prepare or plan for college can visit .

“For business, community and elected leaders invested in Arizona’s economic future, these efforts matter,” said ABOR Executive Director Chad Sampson. “A highly educated workforce begins with ensuring more students pursue and complete a college degree – and FAFSA is the first step.”