Get more college financial aid tips from experts by watching WHIO Reports at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, on Channel 7.
Families seeking help with the federal form required to qualify for financial aid to pay for college can get free assistance from professionals at five local colleges and universities this Sunday.
The University of Dayton, Sinclair Community College, Central State University in Wilberforce, Clark State Community College in Springfield and Edison Community College in Piqua are participating in a statewide event called College Goal Sunday.
Starting at 2 p.m. Feb. 9 at those schools, prospective college students can sit down with a financial aid professional to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid — a form commonly known as the FAFSA that can qualify students for grants or lower-cost student loans.
“We will help families go through the FAFSA — sit right there with them,” said Kathy McEuen Harmon, dean of admission and financial aid at the University of Dayton.
Some families might not consider filling out the form because they don’t believe they will qualify for federal aid, but every prospective student should complete it because it is often required for scholarships from colleges and private organizations, said Kim Jenerette, executive director of financial aid at Cedarville University.
Families who don’t are “possibly leaving money on the table,” he said.
“You don’t have to be intimidated,” Harmon said. “It’s worth your time.”
Those who wish to participate in College Goal Sunday are asked to register online at ohiocollegegoalsunday.org. Participants should bring their social security card and driver’s license, their own or their parents’ IRS 1040 tax return and W2s, and information on any other benefits or income.
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