GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — As the June 30 deadline for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) approaches, Colorado Mesa University (CMU) is making a concerted push to ensure students aren’t left behind.
With a growing number of college hopefuls still struggling to navigate the federal aid process, CMU’s admissions team is working one-on-one with students and families — helping them complete the sometimes-confusing forms that determine access to billions in federal and state aid.
“We have to work really closely with them to make sure that they feel confident in the information that they’re giving us,” said Whitney Bonner, Director of Admissions at CMU. “It’s a great privilege to assist students and families in the opportunity to pursue higher education.”
FAFSA as a Gateway — Not a Barrier
FAFSA, long considered a critical gatekeeper to student aid, has undergone federal changes in recent years — and not all of them have simplified the process. But for CMU students, completing the form can unlock transformative support, especially through programs like the CMU Promise.
The CMU Promise covers full tuition for qualifying Colorado students who complete the FAFSA and come from households earning less than $70,000 per year. It’s part of the university’s broader push to keep higher education “radically affordable,” as Bonner puts it.
“By doing the FAFSA, it allows them to open those doors for finding that financial support,” she said.
Deadline Approaches — But Options Remain
While the federal FAFSA deadline for the 2024–2025 academic year is officially June 30, CMU says it will continue helping students who enroll later — working with them individually to explore financial options even after the deadline passes.
The university has made FAFSA support part of its core student services, offering in-person assistance, admissions workshops, and advising sessions both on campus and online.
CMU officials also emphasize that financial aid isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Beyond the CMU Promise, students may qualify for grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities that all begin with a completed FAFSA.
What’s Next?
Students interested in applying for federal aid through CMU are encouraged to visit the university’s admissions website or contact the Office of Financial Aid directly.
As of mid-June, there are still two weeks left to complete the FAFSA before the federal deadline — and CMU’s team remains on hand to ensure that no eligible student misses out.
