College Financial Aid Time

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An important window will soon open for Indiana college-bound students who need help paying for tuition. The Free Federal Application for Student Financial Aid, or “FAFSA,” determines how much financial aid schools can award based on a family’s financial situation. The application can be filed starting January first. Dr. Laurie Wolfe with the National Association of Financial Aid Administrators says preparing now can make the process less stressful.

The list of documents includes income tax returns and investment statements. The application deadline is June 30th, but to avoid missing any deadlines for special scholarship programs, Wolfe recommends completion before February 15th.
Federal aid is based on need and offered through grants and loans. Wolfe says families need to understand the difference, and look at ways to reduce costs before students begin college.

While in high school, she says students should consider volunteer opportunities that can be helpful experience in getting a scholarship, or high school courses that can be counted for college credit.