Counseling Corner: Addison Trail Guidance Department to host FAFSA Parent Information Nights

Effective financial planning for postsecondary education requires knowledge of the process that determines a student’s financial-aid eligibility.

The government form used to determine financial aid is called the FAFSA, which stands for “Free Application for Federal Student Aid.” After filing the form, each family will receive a Student Aid Report in March, which will explain each student’s financial aid package.

To avoid missing important deadlines, you may file the FAFSA form before you send in your tax return by submitting an estimate based on last year’s tax return. One thing to keep in mind is waiting to file your financial aid form until after you file your tax return might cause a student to miss some financial aid deadlines. Also, forms improperly completed or sent in with mistakes might disqualify, reduce or delay the Student Aid Report. You must apply online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. 

To assist with the process of filling out the FAFSA form, the Addison Trail Guidance Department will host two FAFSA Parent Information Nights.

On Jan. 29, Jennifer Prusko from College of DuPage’s Financial Aid Department will present a general information session on the FAFSA. She will go line by line through the form. She will return (along with Illinois Student Assistance Commission staff) on Feb. 12 to assist parents on an individual basis. Parents will need to have a PIN number and the required tax information for the February session. Both Parent Information Nights will begin at 7 p.m. at Addison Trail.

For questions or more information, call the Addison Trail Guidance Department at 630-628-3324.