High School Juniors should prepare FAFSA for college

It is almost time for High School seniors to fill out and turn in their FAFSA forms. Could you remind your readers how important it is that they turn this form in if they are hoping for any financial aid in college?

Over the holiday, many students and parents should sit down and figure out their tax information in order to prepare their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms. In order to receive any federal financial aid, as well as many types of state student aid, families need to have this form filled out and turned in starting January 1st. The sooner the better is my philosophy. Students also need to check with the financial aid offices of the colleges they are considering to check on additional deadlines and forms these schools may require.

When you fill out the form, you can list up to six colleges, including junior colleges and four-year universities if you are trying to decide between the two. Some families decide to have their child attend community college in the hopes of saving money for the first two years. Regardless of the path your child is taking next year, fill out the form. There is money for kids attending junior college as well as universities.

You will never find what you do not seek.

For more information on the FAFSA and to apply on-line in January, go to http://www.fafsa.ed.gov . Visit the California Student Aid Commission for information on Cal Grants and other student aid information and timelines at http://www.csac.ca.gov .