Counseling Corner: Addison Trail Guidance Department to host FAFSA One-on-One Assistance Night

On Feb. 4, the Addison Trail Guidance Department will host a FAFSA One-on-One Assistance Night.

The event will begin at 6 p.m. Senior students who plan to attend a post-secondary school for the 2016-17 school year are encouraged to complete the FAFSA with their parents/guardians to determine financial aid eligibility. That process might include scholarships, grants and loans. It is important to complete the FAFSA as early as possible to help ensure financial aid is available. On Feb. 4, FAFSA experts will be on hand to help you complete the FAFSA, and laptops will be provided.

You will need to bring some important documents to complete the FASFA:

1. Both the student and the parent/guardian will need to apply for a Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID. To apply, go to www.StudentAid.gov/fsaid. You will need your social security number, full name and date of birth.
2. Tax information from 2014 (or 2015, if it is completed). You can estimate based off of your 2014 tax information and then make updates after your 2015 taxes are complete.
3. A list of schools to which your student has applied and plans to attend. You are able to list multiple schools if your student is undecided.

After you have filed your FAFSA online, you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) within one to two weeks. Between March and July, you will receive financial aid award letters from the colleges you listed on your FAFSA. The award letters will outline the financial aid each college will offer you.

For questions or more information about FAFSA, call the Addison Trail Guidance Department at 630-628-3318.