Training Events

You are invited to join this exciting new training program! CASFAA is planning to launch the inaugural CASFAA Emerging Leaders Academy (ELA) in Summer 2024. The purpose of this academy is to provide a comprehensive training program for emerging financial aid leaders in California institutions of higher learning. The topics covered will range from federal issues, including administrative capability responsibilities, audits, FISAP reporting and program reviews; state issues unique to California schools, including the differences between higher education segments, California state aid programs, state budget and legislative realities, and navigating through the state and federal regulatory maze. Participants will learn how to build positive communication skills, manage conflict and lead through change.

This program is incredibly comprehensive and valuable for emerging leaders in higher education, especially within financial aid departments. It covers a wide range of essential skills and knowledge areas necessary for success in such roles. Let's break down some key points:
  1. Content Overview: The program covers various aspects of soft skills, leadership, time management, communication, career development, work-life harmony, conflict resolution, and relationship building.
  2. NASFAA U Modules: The inclusion of two NASFAA U modules adds significant value, as these are recognized credentials in the field of financial aid administration.
  3. Experiential Learning: By incorporating presentations, exercises, readings, and discussions, participants will engage actively with the material, enhancing their learning experience.
  4. Trainer Expertise: Drawing from a pool of skilled trainers and guest speakers ensures diverse perspectives and depth of experience, enriching the learning environment.
  5. Practical Application: Participants will not only learn theoretical concepts but also how to apply them in real-world scenarios, such as professional communication, networking, and conflict resolution.
  6. Personal Development: The emphasis on self-awareness, goal setting, and work-life harmony reflects a holistic approach to professional development, focusing on both career advancement and personal well-being.
  7. Workplace Dynamics: Addressing topics like generational differences, conflict resolution, and relationship building equips participants with the skills to navigate complex workplace dynamics effectively.
Overall, this program is designed to empower participants with the tools and knowledge needed to excel as leaders in the dynamic environment of higher education, particularly within financial aid departments.

Registration: Register now!

Cost, including lodging, meals, and training for residential students:

  • $800 -CASFAA members
  • $900 - non-members

Cost, including meals and training for commuter students:

  • $500 - CASFAA members
  • $600 - non-members
 
Below are some Recorded Trainings:
California Ban on Scholarship Displacement   June 27, 2023
Presented by members of the CASFAA State Issues Committee, NorCal Promise Coalition, Santa Clara University and uAspire
Presented by David Levy
Handouts:  
Student Loan Update  May 4, 2023
Presented by Mark Kantrowitz
Handout: 
Decoding the ISIR   April 25, 2023
Presented by CASFAA Training - Shawn Domingo, Anafe Robinson, Bronwyn Garrison
Handout:
Funding for Graduate School   April 27, 2023
Presented by Mark Kantrowitz
Handout:
 

Tax Workshops 

Did you miss our in-person trainings with Robert Weinerman in January? Don’t fret! The same content will  be offered in three webinars in March – save these dates and times if you’d like to learn about what’s changed in verification and taxes for the 2025-2026 aid cycle.

The webinar dates will begin at 10:00 am until 12:00 pm

Part I:   March 19th, 2025 

Part II:  March 21st, 2025

Part III: March 27th, 2025

Robert will be covering all the topics a financial aid professional needs to understand for the 2025-2026 aid year, including his famous "where are the FAFSA data on the 2023 tax forms" discussion, a review of filing statuses, and a look at who is required to file a tax return. Whether you are a new aid administrator or a seasoned one with many years of experience, Robert's sessions are a can't miss opportunity to learn new things and hone your knowledge.

Register now!

Agenda will include:

Webinar 1:

  • What’s changed between 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 and tax tears 2022 and 2023?
  • What is verification and what is conflicting information?
  • Verification data elements
  • V1 verification documentation for tax filers
  • Verifiable FAFSA data on the 2023 tax forms
  • Do you need to collect Schedules 1 or 3?

Webinar 2:

  • Other FAFSA data on the 2023 tax forms
  • Securing more Pell Grant for some of your students with contributors who entered tax data manually
  • Tax-filer related reject codes
  • Verification of Family Size
  • What is the Correct Filing Status for a Taxpayer?

Webinar 3:

  • Maximum Pell Grant and the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion
  • V1 verification documentation for non-filers
  • Non-filer related comment code
  • When is a person required to file a tax return?

Industry Trainings

CASFAA is pleased to promote and share the online training opportunities for financial aid administrators provided by our industry partners and associations during the month.  Topics range from financial aid basics, compliance and best practices, to helping students manage debt and repayment, to professional development and personal improvement. A number of the sessions can be of value to both financial aid administrators, high school counselors as well as a few that may be shareable with your students.  You will also see a few business solutions sessions that may be of interest.

 

Financial Aid Online Training Opportunities March 2025.pdf

 

CASFAA Podcasts

CASFAA has recorded some interesting Podcasts about CASFAA, training and events.  See the link below:

Podcast