Proclamation 9356-National College Application Month, 2015
Issued 2015-10-28 by Barack Obama
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
This proclamation designates October 2015 as National College Application Month to encourage students across America to pursue higher education. The proclamation itself doesn't create any new programs or laws—it's a ceremonial declaration that draws public attention to college application season and expresses the President's support for students taking steps toward earning a degree.
The proclamation highlights several existing initiatives the Obama Administration had already launched to help students and families navigate the college application process. These include the redesigned College Scorecard website that lets people compare schools' costs, graduation rates, and employment outcomes for former students, and the Better Make Room campaign supporting the First Lady's Reach Higher initiative. The proclamation also mentions changes to make federal financial aid easier to apply for, including allowing students to file the FAFSA form earlier starting the following year and use tax data from their most recent return.
This proclamation affects anyone considering applying to college, particularly first-generation college students and those from low-income communities. It matters because it brings national attention to the college application period and points students and families toward government resources and information about financial aid, college costs, and application assistance. As a ceremonial proclamation, it follows a long presidential tradition dating back to George Washington and requires no congressional approval.
AI-generated summary for educational purposes
Constitutional Analysis
How this action fits (or doesn't) within Article II authority and existing law
This proclamation designates "Proclamation 9356-National College Application Month, 2015" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to college application. Presidents have issued ceremonial proclamations since George Washington, and they fall squarely within the executive tradition. They do not create new law, direct federal spending, or impose legal obligations on citizens.
Ceremonial proclamations like this one are purely declaratory. They express the sentiment of the President on behalf of the nation, drawing public awareness to causes or communities. They require no congressional approval and face no constitutional challenges.
Official Summary
Administration of Barack Obama, 2015 Proclamation 9356—National College Application Month, 2015 October 28, 2015 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Our Nation was built on the idea that no matter where you come from or what you look like, you can make it if you try. Expanding access to affordable higher education is key to safeguarding this ideal. A college degree is the surest ticket to the middle class, and broadening paths to education so more people have the chance to earn post-secondary degrees and credentials is the best way to make sure all our people can contribute to writing our country's next great chapters. During National College Application Month, we pledge our support for those across America who are taking steps toward earning a degree, and we continue our work to ensure all Americans can access the tools and resources necessary to make informed decisions about college. My Administration has made it a priority to equip aspiring college students and their families with data on college costs, value, and admissions so they can make choices that are right for their futures and their budgets. Earlier this year, we redesigned the Department of Education's College Scorecard, which can be found at CollegeScorecard.ed.go