PHS This Week

FAFSA Open for 2020-21 School Year

On October 1, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opened for the 2020-2021 school year. The FAFSA is a safe and secure government form for students and parents to enter their financial and tax information for colleges to get a better understanding of a student’s financial need. Any student who is planning on going to college next year should be concerned about the application. 

“EVERY senior should be concerned about the FAFSA. It is crucial to financing your college education. Even if you are not sure if you want to go to college, you should complete the FAFSA. Almost all trade and technical school programs will use the FAFSA to provide financial aid as well. If you think you won’t be eligible for federal grants based on your family’s income, fill it out anyway. You will still need to file a FAFSA if you want to take out any federal loans or participate in work study in college. Many colleges will also use the FAFSA to select students for additional financial aid and scholarships,” said College Advising Corps representative Mary Lechner.

While many things have been changed by COVID-19, the FAFSA process is the same as last year’s. Students and parents will use their 2019 tax information to complete the FAFSA. If a family’s financial situation has significantly changed from 2019 due to COVID or otherwise you may be eligible to have your financial aid adjusted. 

“Many colleges are aware and understanding of the financial impact of COVID, and may have additional funds for students who have been affected,” Lechner said.

Anyone with questions should contact Lechner at [email protected]. 

Story by Chandler Hinton