FAFSA Applications Now Available

Students may submit paper form or file electronically for student loans

Harrisburg - The 2007-08 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available and students and their families can either file a traditional form or submit an application electronically, according to state Senator Bob Robbins, R-50th District.

The FAFSA is used to determine students' eligibility for almost all types of student aid, including state grants, Federal Pell Grants, Keystone Stafford Loans, regular Federal Stafford Loans and other federal and institutional programs.

"I strongly urge the families of high school seniors to file the FAFSA," Senator Robbins said. "There are many grant and loan programs available for students and this application is the first step in securing that money."

Paper applications are available from school guidance counselors. Those looking for more information about the FAFSA or interested in filing an electronic application can do so by accessing either fafsa.ed.gov or the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency's college planning website: EducationPlanner.org.

EducationPlanner also offers a free tutorial program to assist in filing the application and provides tips on how to eliminate errors and speed up the process.

Students planning to enroll in baccalaureate degree programs – including those enrolled in college transfer programs at community or junior colleges -- must file the FAFSA by May 1, 2007. Students planning to attend business, trade and technical schools; hospital schools of nursing, or two-year non-transferable programs at community, junior or four-year colleges must file the FAFSA by Aug. 1, 2007.

CONTACT:

Michael Hengst
(717) 787-1322