If you plan on continuing to college the question nearest and dearest to your heart is: “How am I going to pay for it?” Your savior is here: FAFSA!
Artwork by Mallory Baker
TJ’s College and Financial Aid Advisor, Tabitha Rocha, is hosting workshops, Tuesday, February 28 and Thursday, March 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. in room 105. So what is the FAFSA? This acronym stands for “Free Application for Federal Student Aid.” It is a program funded by the U.S. Department of Education that ensures that all eligible individuals can benefit from federally funded financial assistance for education beyond high school.
All college bound seniors must apply for the FAFSA. Filling it out can be a grueling process; however, with the help of Rocha and other DPS college advisors, the experience promises to be short and painless. In order to complete the FAFSA, a record of the parent or guardian’s 2011 taxes is required. While it is possible to fill out the form with an estimate, Rocha recommends that parents and students have their taxes completed to avoid encountering more work. Rocha warns, “You are able to use an estimate for the FAFSA; however, using an estimate will flag the form and colleges will not accept it, forcing you to complete the FAFSA twice.” Information such as social security numbers, 2011 W-2 forms, driver’s license, and savings account information is crucial for the FAFSA.
Once the form has been submitted, it is reviewed and award letters are generated. In these letters the college lays out the cost of attendance, breaking it down into tuition, fees, books and supplies, transportation, personal expenses, and health care. Below, the college will list grants, loans, and work study eligibility.
The dates for the workshops are quickly approaching, so ensure your college future now, and attend. TJ senior Sam Miller says he will be sure to make an appearance: “Ya bro, I need cash in the worst way and FAFSA is where it’s at. I’ll definitely be at the workshop.”
Don’t forget the essentials! When you come be sure to have: 2011 tax forms and W-2’s (1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ). Your parents’ information is the most important. Come join and earn money along with your fellow Spartans!
