September 2025

Last week we announced the launch of the College Planning Series! This series expands on our former program Ready, Set, FAFSA!, and includes new offerings to help support students and families in the college-going process. Access the College Planning Series Promo Toolkit to help us promote these great events!

This fall, we are hosting the following free, virtual information sessions: 

• Explore College Options - 9/30/2025 @ 7pm 
• Apply to College - 10/07/2025 @ 7pm 
• Understand Financial Aid - 10/14/2025 @ 7pm 
• FAFSA 101 - 10/21/2025 @ 7pm 
• Dream Act 101 - 10/28/2025 @ 7pm  
• Scholarships 101 - 11/18/2025 @ 7pm 

Registration is open now!

College Knowledge Month Counselor Resources

In addition to the College Planning Series resources, we continue to have the following great materials available for counselors! 

1. The College Knowledge Month Calendar - Daily activities to help students stay on track with the college search process. 
2. College Knowledge Month Social Medial Guide - This toolkit includes pre-made graphics and text to connect with students and families about College Knowledge Month!
3. List of Free College Applications - The annual list of colleges with free applications in 2025-2026!

Reminder: Register for Fall Trainings

This fall, join us for our annual trainings. This year, we are offering the following options:

• Higher Education Updates: This meeting is for counselors and other practitioners to provide relevant updates in the higher education landscape locally and nationally. If you have specific questions you are hoping might be addressed, please send those along ahead of time to libby.fahrenkamp@state.mn.us
  • October 2nd, 2025 from 2:30-3:30 p.m.
• 2026-27 FAFSA Training: This training is is designed for educators with a focus on getting information to high school counselors and community partners who assist families with FAFSA completion. Training is by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education. Both sessions provide the same content. 
  • October 9th, 2025 from 2-3:30 p.m. 
  • October 15th, 2025 from 2-3:30 p.m. 
• 2026-27 MN Dream Act Training: Presented by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education, this training is for educators who assist families with MN Dream Act completion. Presenters will cover eligibility, the application process, and explain who should file as well as the benefits of filing. 
  • October 23rd, 2025 from 2-3 p.m. 

Questions? Email Libby.Fahrenkamp@state.mn.us