Kansas City, MO – (December 9, 2024) – In response to ongoing financial pressures faced by students who hope to earn a college degree, Avila University is proud to announce the launch of the Avila Access Award, which provides free tuition for eligible students to attend Avila University. Any student living in a Missouri household with an adjusted gross income (AGI) of $80,000 or less can apply for the Avila Access Award.
Recent changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) have created significant challenges for students and their families. In the past year, many families faced unprecedented difficulties in completing the FAFSA due to delays and other changes in the application process. Just at Avila alone, those hurdles contributed to a 40% drop in FAFSA filers. This decline not only impacts enrollment numbers but also means that countless students who would otherwise pursue higher education run the risk of being left behind. While FAFSA is open for Beta 4 testing currently, any student can apply for the 2025-26 year. However, with all of the recent changes, paper filing is an option for those having trouble. For all of these reasons, Avila is working to make things easier when it comes to financial aid.
“Access to college is the most critical factor in transforming not only a student’s financial future but also that of future generations in their family,” said Jim Burkee, president of Avila University. “On average, individuals who earn a college degree can expect to make $1 to $2 million more over their lifetimes compared to those who do not attend college. This increased earning potential can create lasting benefits for their children and grandchildren, breaking cycles of financial hardship and opening doors to new opportunities. We are committed to changing this reality. Ensuring financial barriers do not prevent deserving students from achieving their educational goals is the first step.”
This initiative reflects Avila’s mission to provide Education Without Limits and support students who may otherwise be unable to pursue their academic aspirations due to financial constraints. If a family is not eligible for the Access Award, Avila also offers a robust scholarship package, providing every first-year student up to $30,000 in scholarships. In fact, 98% of Avila students receive scholarships of some kind.
Families can determine eligibility for the Avila Access Award by referencing their tax returns. To qualify, simply look for the AGI on Form 1040, line 11.
“Avila University remains dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where all students can thrive academically and financially,” said Burkee. “Reducing the financial barriers to education is the first step, but Avila also aims to empower students once they are enrolled and provide a core framework for ongoing success. Every student who wants to go to college should have the opportunity to experience this kind of teaching and learning. This is what we mean when we talk about Education Without Limits.”
One way Avila sets its students up to succeed is by going beyond the classroom and teaching the development of the whole person, another of the university’s core values. Students receive individual advising, with a team of faculty and staff ready to mentor and offer one-on-one guidance. This concierge approach begins atadmission but continues throughout the duration of the student’s time at Avila.
Media Contact:
Sara Kline
Associate Vice President,
Marketing Communications and Enrollment Operations C: 913.207.8683
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