More than $170 billion is available in aid to help pay for college yet most families have no clue where to find it and I do. The first step in applying for over 90 percent of this money is filing your federal financial aid application, known as the FAFSA.
What’s FAFSA? It stands for Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
It is the application most colleges use to determine eligibility for federal, state, and college sponsored financial aid, including grants, educational loans, and work-study programs. It is used by the Department of Education to determine your college costs known as EFC (Expected Family Contribution).
It’s a fact that college tuition is climbing, credit is tightening and the economy is weakening. Figuring out how to pay for college is more challenging than ever. Yet one thing remains constant: Completing the FAFSA is complicated and time consuming. I specialize in doing it right, making the application process easy, and maximizing your chances for free money.
Tip One – Fill FAFSA Out Correctly. There is a very high “error rate” on FAFSA; errors that could ruin your opportunity for free money. The FAFSA is examined by a federal processor, and results are sent by computer to college financial aid office you’ve chosen. Make sure it is done right from the start.
Tip Two – Submit Early. Federal aid is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The earlier you file the better your chances of accessing the most aid possible. Filing correctly and as close to January 1 is highly recommended.
Tip Three – Strategize With A College Planning Expert. Understanding ‘What’ the FAFSA does will help you strategize “how to maximize benefits” available. Consult with College Planning Experts to gain insight on your situation.
Special Offer: Parents of a High School Junior can enjoy a complimentary consultation now through 10/31/12. Call us today 661-295-9946 to discuss your options. Let us help you maximize your opportunity to get free money for college!
Brian Safdari is a Certified College Planner at College Planning Experts. For more information, please call 661-295-9946 and visit www.collegeplanningexperts.com. The office is located at 28494 Westinghouse Place, Suite 206 in Valencia.