Jan 11th 2008, 16:12

2008 FAFSA Filing Begins

Online applications made even easier

The U.S. Department of Education has already released the 2008-2009 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

FAFSA is the first step to getting monetary assistance from the government to pursue higher education. The FAFSA determines whether an applicant qualifies for any federal education grants and loans; many state and private student aid programs also base eligibility on FAFSA. Income, the size of the family, and the age of the oldest parent are some of the factors for eligibility.

Each year, more than $80 billion is made available through grants and loans to eligible students attending postsecondary schools. Of the estimated 14 million who apply, more than 10 million receive financial aid.

"Most families are eligible to receive some type of financial aid; they just have to take that first step and complete the application," Education Secretary Margaret Spellings said.

Almost all applications are done online. Now, students and families can take advantage of these newly-added online features:

• Request a personal identification number (PIN) and immediately receive it to electronically sign the application.
• Submit an online FAFSA and immediately receive a confirmation with a preliminary expected family contribution.
• List up to 10 schools to receive the provided financial aid information.
• Copy parental information to another FAFSA application for a second or third child.

Aside from online filing, applicants can also download the FAFSA form or order a hard copy at the Federal Student Aid Web site, www.federalstudentaid.ed.gov. Once there, click on "FAFSA Filing Options." Both downloadable form and hard copy are available in English and Spanish.

Students and families are encouraged to submit applications as early as possible. The academic year begins on July 1.

 

To Do List: - Suggested Links:

1. Increase Your Income:
   Get an online degree with financial aid from the government.
2. Consolidate Your Bills:
   Student Loans - Credit Card Debts - Refinance Home
3. Reward Yourself:
   Get a new computer for free.
4. Get some cash you don’t have to pay back:
   Government has money for almost any worthwhile need.
5. A MasterCard or Visa, even if your credit is not good
   A real line of credit