If you’ve opened up the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and have stared at your computer screen with “umms” and head scratches, if you’re unsure where to begin or if you want to double check if it’s filled out correctly, mark your calendars for an upcoming FAFSA Fridays workshop.
Hosted by Southwestern College’s Financial Aid Department, FAFSA Fridays give students expert step-by-step and hands-on instructions on filling out the FAFSA or the California Dream Act Application.
Each workshop is held in the Transfer Center computer lab inside the Cesar Chavez Student Services Center on the second floor. Each workshop is from 11am-1pm on Fridays from now through April (except on Jan. 20 and 27, Feb. 10 and March 31). Workshops are on a walk-in basis.
Reminder, the priority deadline for the upcoming 2017-18 is March 2.
Launched last fall to help students navigate their way to state and federal aid, FAFSA Fridays will continue this spring to make sure Southwestern College students maximize their aid. Last fall, 88 percent of students left the workshop with completed applications.
If you’re planning on attending, here are a few things you should bring with you:
- Social Security Number
- Tax information
- W-2 forms
With recent changes to the FAFSA, you’ll need your “prior prior” year information to file. For the 2017–18 FAFSA, you’ll report your 2015 income and tax information. With that info, Financial Aid counselors and technicians will help you begin and submit your application for the upcoming 2017-18 school year. If you’re new to financial aid or to Southwestern College, they can also help with the 2016-17 school year application.
If you need some more information beforehand, visit the Financial Aid Department’s website or pay them a visit inside the first floor of the Chavez Center.
