FAFSA....What's that?

High School seniors...as you go through your college "to do" list, please remember to file the FAFSA by March 1st for Valpo.

What's the FAFSA? It's the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. You may file through paper or online (most people file online). www.fafsa.ed.gov. It allows students to possibly receive grant and/or loan money from the government based on your family's finances (including tax information). Grants = money you don't have to pay back and government loans = low interest rates. Payment for government loans typically doesn't begin until after college graduation.

Why file the FAFSA? Why not? It could lead to free money from the government, either in the form of grants and/or loans. Every little bit of financial assistance helps to pay for college.

Do I have to accept all the loans I am eligible for through the FAFSA? No. You can decline any and all loans you wish to not accept.

While the cost of college and loans may be "scary" to think about, just remember this...college is an investment...an investment in your future. This sometimes means you need to take out a little extra money to get you where you want to be in life. I compare it to buying a car. When you are buying a car you want a nice reliable one, but often times that means the car is going to cost more than you anticipated. Now you can settle for a less expensive car that might not get you as far in life, but it fits your budget at the time or you can make the investment and spend a little more to get the car you really want. Either way, don't let the cost of college or loans scare you away from your dreams.

The moral of my blog today....file the FAFSA and increase your financial aid package for college...every little bit helps to fund your college education and your future. www.fafsa.ed.gov.

You can check Valpo's website for more FAFSA information and how to apply:
http://www.valpo.edu/financialaid/applying/incomingstudents.php

If you or your parents have questions about Financial Aid, please see our FAQ page:
http://www.valpo.edu/financialaid/faq/index.php#loans