It is almost the end of the year, which means most of the Seniors will plan to go to a University or College. However, there are some things they need to do before they attend and study for their dream career. One of these things is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, for short.
“Filling out the FAFSA is the only way students can receive federal money that you don’t have to pay back.” Kathleen Ashton said. “Millions of dollars go unclaimed every year because students do not fill it out.”
Out of 506 Seniors, 240 have completed the FAFSA, 29 are in the process of completing it and 62 students have opted out of completing the FAFSA for a variety of reasons.
There are priority deadline dates, but there is not a hard deadline for completing the FAFSA.
“It’s not too late to complete the FAFSA,” Ashton said. “They may still qualify for grants that will completely pay for their college.”
Some of the information asked for on the FAFSA arearent(s) and student’s legal names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, access to cell phones and emails for parent and student.
As well as W-2 forms and other records of money earned in 2020, 2020 Federal Income Tax Return, and value of bank accounts and investments.
However, “not having all of this information should not prevent a student from completing the FAFSA,” Ashton said. “If a student has any questions and would like to complete the form, they need to schedule to see their counselor.”
The FAFSA form won’t ask about the student’s and parent(s’) citizenship status. If a parent doesn’t have a Social Security number, they must enter 000-00-0000 when the FAFSA form asks for it.
If a student is classified as a TX resident and, therefore, are eligible to pay the TX in-state tuition rate, they should fill out the Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA).
“Every student’s situation is different,” Ashton said. ”If you are going to college, you will want to complete the FAFSA, regardless of your status.”
The district has a webpage full of FAFSA information including myths about the FAFSA and what to do after you submit it. Starting next year, The Class of 2022 will be required to complete the FAFSA/TASFA or opt out form as a graduation requirement.
