As we roll into the new year, the season for college selection and preparation starts; and it gets serious. For preparation, looking into student aid options and filing your FAFSA is the best way to start this journey. The FAFSA(Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a form that determines eligibility for financial aid based on personal and parental income. 

     In a typical year, the FAFSA form is opened on October 1 and the deadline is June 30; with that said it is always better to file as early as possible due to the availability of scholarships. This year is different, with the opening that started on December 31, 2023, and will end on June 30, 2024. The form was remodeled this year with the intent to “make it easier than ever for students to get financial aid for college and help 610,000 more students from low-income backgrounds receive Pell Grants”(Federal Student Aid). 

     Preparing for the needed information while filling out the FAFSA is the best way to ensure an easy completion. Be sure to have both your parents and your social security numbers, email addresses, and personal information (address, date of birth, phone numbers, bank account information).

      Using resources such as the Education Quest website and appointments with people who specialize in helping students with these important documents will make this process less stressful. It’s a great idea to talk to your counselors for advice to help you prepare to get into your college of choice. You can do anything you put your mind to, especially when it comes to advancing your education through college. Do your best and remember that it all works out in the end, even if you can’t see it!