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• FAFSA Completion Assistance Certification Program

FAFSA Completion Assistance Certification

Overview of the Training

The ICAN FAFSA Completion Assistance Certification Program prepares school counselors, mentors, and community partners to confidently guide students through the FAFSA process. This comprehensive, scenario-based training emphasizes practical strategies for supporting students and families in successfully completing the FAFSA and accessing financial aid.

Key Topics Covered:

• Core financial aid concepts, tools, and resources
• Step-by-step FAFSA form review and completion
• Avoiding common FAFSA errors and addressing common challenges
• Understanding federal and state aid eligibility
• Navigating dependency status and parental information
• Interpreting and using FAFSA submission results

Participants will leave certified and ready to provide expert-level FAFSA assistance in schools and community settings.

Upcoming Virtual Sessions

• FAFSA Certification 
  Participants who complete the training and pass the final assessment will be ICAN Certified to assist students with FAFSA completion. This certification is valid for four years, with annual online recertification.

  August 20, 2025 | 8:30 am - Noon | CLOSED
  September 17, 2025 |  8:30 am - Noon | CLOSED
  
  On-Demand | Register
  The 2025 live sessions are now closed. If you would like to obtain your FAFSA certification, you can do so through the on-demand training option. The on-demand option will walk you through the training and provide an assessment at the end. By completing and passing the assessment you will receive your 4-year certification.

Certification Details

Participants who complete the training and pass the final assessment will be ICAN Certified to assist students with FAFSA completion. This certification is valid for four years, with re-certification available after the initial period.

Payment & Pricing Details

• Training registration fee is $50.
• The fee covers four years of certification and annual recertification training. 
• Certification Renewal in year five is $50.
• Fees can be paid through online via credit card. There is an online processing fee.
• Is your organization or district paying? Do you need a PO and invoice? Click here to request an invoice and register.

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FAFSA Recertification: A Scenario-Based Training

• FAFSA Recertification 
  Offered annually after year one, ICAN’s FAFSA Recertification training provides participants with the opportunity to refresh their knowledge of FAFSA procedures and practice applying updated guidance through real-world scenarios. The session reviews key financial aid terms and walks participants through both traditional and complex FAFSA situations to reinforce accuracy and confidence in assisting students. Participants must complete an online assessment at the end of the training to earn recertification through the ICAN program.
  
  Recertification Details:

  • Provided annually
  • Includes scenario-based instruction and online assessment
  • Missed your recertification window? Contact Professional Development Team for options
  • Those who qualify for recertification will be contacted with training dates via email.
     

• FAFSA Certification Renewal
  The initial certification fee covers four years of training. At the end of each certification period, you have the option to renew for another four years and continue with annual training recertification. The  FAFSA Certification renewal provides participants with the opportunity to refresh their knowledge of FAFSA procedures and practice applying updated guidance through real-world scenarios. Participants must complete an online assessment at the end of the training to earn recertification through the ICAN program.