Bill > SB879

This bill requires all public high school students in West Virginia to complete and submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as a prerequisite for graduating, beginning in the 2025-2026 school year. Students who are legally eligible for federal student aid must either file the FAFSA or complete a waiver form acknowledging they understand what the FAFSA is but choose not to file. High schools must provide support and assistance to help students or their parents/guardians complete this requirement. If a student cannot meet the requirement due to extenuating circumstances but has met all other graduation requirements, they may still receive a diploma if the school principal attests that a good faith effort was made to help the student file the application or waiver. The bill includes provisions to protect student privacy, ensuring compliance with federal laws like the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and state privacy regulations. The goal of this legislation is to encourage more students to explore potential financial aid opportunities for post-secondary education by making FAFSA submission a standard part of the high school graduation process.

Education

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=879&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill