Jumping through the Hoops to Get Financial Aid for College Students who Are Homeless: Policy Analysis of the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007

Abstract

Congress enacted the College Cost Reduction and Access Act (CCRAA) to improve college access for unaccompanied homeless youth by expanding the definition of “independent student” on their financial aid applications. Using qualitative interviews with homeless community college students and university financial aid administrators (FAA), this research explored the implementation of this policy. This study indicates that multiple barriers to financial aid for homeless youth continue to persist after the passage of CCRAA. Youth reported burdensome verification procedures and FAAs reported extensive justification to prove youth homelessness and attempts to support students. Efforts to increase these youths' ability to receive financial aid include revisions to the verification procedures and specialized trainings. Specific recommendations for practice, policy, and research are provided.