Senior Parent Information Night

Why is the FAFSA so important?

• Close to $3 billion in free federal grant money goes unclaimed every year.

• Many students qualify for at least some form of financial aid, even though they may think they don't. Completion of the FAFSA also helps you get federal student loans, which have better interest rates and are typically safer than private student loans.

• Most higher education institutions require students fill it out regardless.

• The PELL and MAP grants (federal and state aid) typically completely cover the cost of in-district community college tuition, and may cover most if not all of the tuition at a local university.

• Only 59% of seniors in Illinois were completing the FAFSA, meaning that many eligible students were missing out on funding that could have helped them gain certification in a trade or a degree.

• Completion of the FAFSA is now a requirement to graduate in Illinois. Parents or students age 18 or older may opt out of completing the FAFSA with a waiver.

Important notes

1. THE FAFSA DOES NOT OPEN UNTIL OCTOBER 1ST.

2. All students need to complete the 22-23 FAFSA.

3. Students who plan to take any summer classes after graduation should complete the 21-22 FAFSA in addition to the 22-23 FAFSA.

Need Help? Make an Appointment to Complete the FAFSA

Shawnee Community College is available to assist parents and/or students with completing the FAFSA by appointment (instructions to set up an appointment on flyers below). AJCHS will be hosting FAFSA completion events with the help of our Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) representative, Amelia Blakely, and Shawnee Community College on March 17th and March 21st from 3:30 to 7:00 pm. Please see the instructions on the SCC flyer regarding FSA ID and required documents for your appointment. We will not be able to assist you without FSA IDs and the proper documents.