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HB 1095

High school students; completion of certain applications for student financial aid required.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nicole Cole and 1 co-sponsor

Virginia high school graduation now requires students to complete FAFSA and state financial aid applications with school-provided assistance to increase college affordability access.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 934 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 1095

Legislative bill overview

HB 1095 requires Virginia high school students to complete applications for federal and state student financial aid (FAFSA and Virginia Financial Aid Form) as a condition of graduation or receiving a diploma. The bill mandates that schools provide assistance and resources to help students complete these applications during the school day.

Why is this important

Many eligible students fail to complete financial aid applications, leaving substantial grant money unclaimed and reducing college accessibility for lower-income families. This requirement aims to increase college enrollment and reduce financial barriers by ensuring all students engage with aid processes before graduation, potentially affecting thousands of Virginia students annually.

Potential points of contention

  • Mandate burden on schools: Requires schools to dedicate staff time and resources to application assistance, potentially straining already tight K-12 budgets without corresponding funding increases
  • Graduation requirement enforcement: Making aid applications a diploma requirement raises questions about whether students should be penalized for non-completion and how schools will handle non-compliance
  • Privacy and parental concerns: FAFSA requires sensitive family financial information; some parents may object to mandatory disclosure requirements or school involvement in financial matters
  • Equity in implementation: Variation in school capacity to provide quality assistance could create disparities in how effectively students are helped across wealthy and under-resourced districts

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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