 The event is scheduled for 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. Saturday in the
college's four computer labs, located in Dooley Hall.The workshop
is open to both current and prospective Lincoln College students and
the entire Logan County community. No appointments are necessary.
"The financial aid process, especially the FAFSA, can be
confusing," said Tony Cardenas, Lincoln College vice president of
enrollment management and student services. "During the workshop, we
will be offering the assistance of our financial aid office and our
admissions staff. All of these individuals have extensive experience
with the financial aid process.
"Their expertise is something we want the entire community to
benefit from, not just Lincoln College students."
Much of the work at the workshop will revolve around the FAFSA.
The FAFSA is an application for financial assistance through federal
and state governments. A large majority of college students complete
the FAFSA each year.
Like other institutions of higher education, Lincoln College is
advising local students with plans to attend college next year to
complete the FAFSA as early as possible. The state of Illinois
distributes grant money -- as much as $5,000 annually for a college
student -- to those eligible who have filed their FAFSA by a
state-specified date in the spring.
In 2011, the "cut-off date" for grant money came in March, which
was earlier than previous years. Many experts are predicting the
date to come even earlier in 2012. Students who miss the deadline
will not be eligible for the grant money through the state of
Illinois.
"It is very, very important for families to complete their FAFSA
as soon as possible. Do not procrastinate," said Cardenas.
"Attending the workshop is just one way to gain a better
understanding of this process. We are here to help."
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Lincoln College is also advising anyone who plans on attending
the marathon workshop to register for a Personal Identification
Number prior to attending. Students and parents can register for a
PIN at www.pin.ed.gov. A PIN is required for both students and
parents.
In addition, the college is recommending that attendees do their
best to provide:
-
A copy of any
completed 2011 federal tax forms for both the student and the
parent. If 2011 taxes are not completed, the W-2 can be used to
determine a financial aid estimate.
-
Information on any
other income, including Social Security benefits.
-
Financial
statements with balances of checking and savings accounts for
student and parents.
-
Financial
statements showing the value of investments, such as stocks and
bonds.
-
Both student and parent birth dates and
Social Security numbers.
With any questions that are preliminary in nature, parents and
students may contact Celia Jeckel in the financial aid office at
732-3155, ext. 231.
[Text from file received from
Lincoln College]
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