Idaho college enrollments appear upward-bound
More than 9,300 Idaho high school seniors have completed their Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms. That is up 2% from the same time last year.
At the same time, nearly 11,000 seniors have used the state’s “Apply Idaho” website to apply to an Idaho college, an increase of over 2,800 students over a year ago.
Together, the State Board of Education suggests more seniors are planning to enroll in college or a career technical program this fall.
The National College Access Network ranked Idaho 44th among the 50 states in the percentage of high school seniors completing FAFSA forms by the June deadline. Idaho’s ranking will move up at least 5 spots this year if the current trend continues.
“I’m thrilled,” Idaho State Board College and Career Advising Program Manager Byron Yankey said. “FAFSA completion is a predictor of student enrollment. It is a national marker. “When states see increased FAFSA’s, college enrollment generally increases.”
Board member Dr. Linda Clark believes Idaho’s “go-on” initiatives are beginning to take hold.
“We on the Board recognize the value of these tools. If they are indeed making a difference as it appears they are, we will see increased enrollment figures for Idaho residents, the people these initiatives are intended for,” said Clark.
