FAFSA on the Web for 2009-10 will be available January 1, 2009. While Fall 2009 may seem far away, there are definite advantages to applying early. Do you want to be considered for free money from the state through the Cal Grant? You must submit your FAFSA by March 2, 2009. Would you like to get a job on campus through the Federal Work-Study Program? How about some free extra cash through the Federal Supplemental Opportunity Grant? LBCC receives limited money for those programs and it is awarded to eligible students who submit their FAFSA and complete their financial aid files first. Had problems getting financial aid at the beginning of school because your file was selected for verification? Applying early allows us time to process your file and get money to you in time to buy books.
If you (or your parents or both) won’t be filing a 2008 tax return you can apply January 1. If you worked, complete your tax return as soon as you get your W-2 to get an early tax refund. Use that early tax return to apply early for financial aid to get the maximum financial aid award. Even if you or your parents will be filing a later tax return be sure to apply before March 2. You can estimate the income information on the FAFSA and correct it later.
Pick up a FAFSA on the Web Worksheet in the Financial Aid Office and complete it before going online. If you have questions or problems completing it you can bring them to one of our Financial Aid Specialists who will be glad to help you get it right. When you go apply online at www.fafsa.ed.gov choose to update your information from last year’s application and most of your FAFSA will be done. Be sure to review all information for accuracy. If you need computer access or feel you might need some help entering your Worksheet answers online, bring your completed Worksheet to one of the FAFSA Computer Labs. LBCC offers weekly workshops at both campuses beginning with the Spring semester.
Remember: An early FAFSA = Maximum Financial Aid delivered on time! |
