Navigating high school graduation requirements is already a complex task, but for students in several states, there’s an additional step to complete submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA®. Why is this requirement in place, which states enforce it, and what do families need to know?
What is the FAFSA Requirement for High School Graduation?
Several states now require high school seniors to complete the FAFSA—or another approved financial aid application—as a part of their graduation requirements. The goal? To increase college enrollment rates and ensure students are aware of the financial aid opportunities available to them.
For students or families who prefer not to complete the application, most states allow you to submit a waiver to opt out of the requirement. The process, however, varies by state and family circumstance.
While many see the FAFSA requirement as beneficial, there are concerns that it could place an added burden on students and families, particularly those who don’t plan to pursue four-year college degrees or are focused on trade schools.
Which States Require FAFSA for High School Graduation?
The states with FAFSA completion laws passed, include:
- Alabama
- California
- Connecticut
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Maryland
- Nebraska
- New Jersey
- New York
- Oklahoma
- Texas
However, not all these states are enforcing the requirement currently. Implementation depends on the timeline of each state’s law. Some states, such as Indiana, have already started enforcing this requirement. States like, Connecticut, have passed the law to take effect for the 2026-2027 school year.
Why Requires the FAFSA in the First Place?
The FAFSA is a critical application when it comes to college financial planning. Submitting the FAFSA allows students to apply for federal grants, loans, work-study programs, as well as many state-funded scholarships and institutional aid.
For high schools, requiring FAFSA completion can lead to better college enrollment outcomes—a key goal of most educational institutions. Research shows that students are more likely to attend college when they complete the FAFSA because it outlines financial assistance options.
Additionally, FAFSA completion doesn’t just help students pursuing bachelor's degrees. Many trade schools and vocational schools also accept federal financial aid, so the FAFSA can help open doors for students looking at alternative career paths. The application itself is relatively quick to complete compared to its benefits.
What If I Don’t Plan to Complete the FAFSA? Can I Still Graduate?
Yes, if you complete the waiver option. For students who opt not to complete the FAFSA, waivers are available. However, the waiver process varies depending on the state.
For example, in Connecticut, a parent, school counselor or representative, can sign a FAFSA waiver to fulfill the graduation requirement. Students who are 18 or older—or legally emancipated—can even sign the waiver themselves.
Each state will have their own waiver process, and the ease of completing the waiver will depend on that state’s rule. It’s important to understand your specific state’s waiver procedure so you can plan.
Will FAFSA Requirements Become the Norm?
Not necessarily. While many states are introducing FAFSA laws, others are reconsidering or reversing their requirements, like the state of New Hampshire. Critics argue that the requirement places undue pressure on students and families, especially if they don’t have college or trade school plans. Additionally, some believe that focusing largely on FAFSA reinforces a bias toward four-year degree programs and doesn’t always prioritize students interested in alternative career paths, or those who decide to enlist in the military.
Still, for students planning to pursue higher education, the FAFSA remains a vital tool. Even if it isn’t required, completing the FAFSA can unlock various financial aid opportunities that make college more accessible.
Next Steps for Students and Families
If you’re a high school senior or the parent of one, start by checking whether your state requires FAFSA completion for graduation. Make sure to gather the necessary documents early—such as tax returns and financial information—to simplify the process. If you think you’ll need a waiver, familiarize yourself with your state’s requirements to ensure a smooth path to graduation.
It’s estimated that the FAFSA only takes 20-45 minutes to complete, but it could provide financial aid that shapes your educational future.