FAFSA

Here is some information in regard to filing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). The following is a quick summary of how FAFSA works taken from www.coursera.org:

"Your FAFSA form determines your eligibility for financial assistance. Colleges or universities, and states all use FAFSA when making decisions about who receives financial aid—and what type—so it’s an important document to file. With this form, you or your parents may receive financial aid to help pay for some or all of your college expenses.

FAFSA asks you to submit a picture of your financial situation in order to figure out your Expected Family Contribution (EFC), and calculate your financial award. Even if you do not qualify for need-based financial assistance, you may still qualify for federal student loans, which often feature lower interest rates and flexible repayment plans."

FAFSA opens sometime in December. It is a great idea to try to get the FAFSA filed soon after it opens up for the year!

Here are a few options for help from ICAN. Please see these options at https://www.icansucceed.org/financial-aid/financial-aid-process/fafsa. 

Options/resources from this site:

• Find an event near you or work with an ICAN advisor. Events vary from walk-ins to appointments. View event schedule to find an event near you. (NCC is the closest site and students can attend whether they are attending there or not).

• Schedule a virtual appointment with a professional from ICAN. (See past recordings and future virtual events here.)

• Come prepared. A professional will provide assistance as long as students and parents bring the correct documents (list of what to bring).

• Sign-up for ICAN's Senior Alerts to get event and other senior year reminders.

• Sign up for the Virtual College Coach text service.

• FSA ID - You need to set up an FSA ID username and password. Visit www.ICANsucceed.org/fsaid for more information.

FAFSA Step-by-Step Guide walks students and families through each question of the FAFSA, including screenshots and explanations and a FAQ page for students with special circumstances. Here is the link https://www.standoutcollegeprep.com/fafsa-questions/