By AMANDA FLEMINGER
Aside from scholarships, seniors can receive money for college through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The money comes direct from the federal government and helps pay for tuition and fees, room and board, books and supplies, transportation and it can also pay for a computer and dependent care. Students can receive three different types of aid: grants, work-study and/or loans.
In order for one to qualify for federal aid, he must meet the requirements as follows:
- Demonstrate financial need
- Be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen
- Have a valid Social Security number
- Register with Selective Service, if a male between the ages of 18 and 25
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress in postsecondary school
- Show one is qualified to obtain postsecondary school
The application availability began Jan. 1, and is open until June 30 to submit. However, one should apply early; the earlier submitted, the more money one receives. FAFSA comes on a first come, first serve basis. To complete the application, one must go to www.fafsa.gov.
Valencia Community College will be hosting a FAFSA Frenzy Friday on Jan. 21, where one can receive the help from “experts” from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at both East and West campuses. To receive help, bring the following items: 2010 Income Information, Social Security Card, Driver’s License and Alien Registration Card (if eligible non-citizen). For more information, go to http://www.vanciacc.edu/finaid/fafsfrenzy.cfm.