Matthew Arrojas
Expertise
- Higher Education Policy
- Student Loans
- Student Financial Aid
- FAFSA
- Accreditation
- Graduate Student Unions
- International Students
- College Free Speech
Education
- BA Journalism, University of Florida
Matthew is a higher education news reporter specializing in higher education policy changes that impact current and former college students and student loan borrowers.
Matthew’s main coverage focus is on federal and state higher education policy. That includes changes to the federal student loan system, college funding, and the financial aid system. He extensively covers changes to and the rollout of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
His coverage also centers on niche student groups, including students with experience in foster care, students with disabilities, and other historically underrepresented groups.
Matthew previously worked as the hospitality and tourism news reporter at the South Florida Business Journal. He also covered higher education policy issues at Gainesville’s NPR affiliate as a student at the University of Florida. He graduated with a BA in journalism with an outside concentration in history.
Read Matthew Arrojas's Latest Articles
2026-27 FAFSA Updates: What Students Need to Know About Federal Financial Aid
The full 2026-27 FAFSA is expected to launch Oct. 1, 2025. It would be the first on-time FAFSA launch since 2022.
Congress Is Poised To Expand Workforce Pell. Here’s What It Means for Adult Learners
Proposals to expand the Pell Grant to short-term certificate programs could have a big impact on adult learners seeking to advance their careers.
College Guide for DACA and Undocumented Students
Are you a DACA or undocumented student thinking about college? Here's what you need to know about financial aid and choosing and applying to a school.
June 23, 2025
These Universities Offer Free Nursing School
Some universities are offering free nursing school options. Learn how you can pursue your nursing education tuition-free.
June 20, 2025
Proposed Pell Grant Cuts Could Have Outsized Impact on Online, Adult Students
Experts told BestColleges that the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" that passed the U.S. House in May could cause many part-time students to lose access to critical financial aid.
June 19, 2025
