Volunteers will help college bound students with financial aid applications on College Goal Sunday

GRAND RAPIDS – College bound students seeking free assistance with filling out the federal financial aid application, known as the FAFSA, should plan on attending the College Goal Sunday event in their area on Feb. 12.
“For many students and their families, college seems like an unachievable and unaffordable dream,” said state Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan, about the statewide event. “College Goal Sunday locations have financial aid experts who can help families complete these complex applications and maximize financial assistance for students wanting to go to college.”
Last year, more than 1,600 students received assistance at College Goal Sunday events from volunteers. According to the state, statistics show that students who complete and submit FAFSA forms are more likely to go on to college.
The annual event is a collaborative effort of the state Department of Education, the Michigan Student Financial Aid Association, and EduGuide. The program was created to increase the number of students who continue education beyond high school and earn post-secondary degrees. The FAFSA is required of any student seeking financial aid including grants, loans, and many scholarships.
“It is critical that high school seniors and their parents are aware of these College Goal Sunday events,” said Bryan Taylor, president of EduGuide. “Students must complete and file a FAFSA in order to secure financial aid and should file by the March 1st priority date to ensure eligibility for federal and state programs.”
On Sunday, Feb. 12, student financial aid experts will be available to guide students and their parents through each step of completing and filing the free FAFSA. Students under age 23 are encouraged to attend with a parent or guardian. Parents and students should bring their completed 2011 Federal tax return (1040) if possible, or their W-2 and 1099 forms.
Dozens of sites across Michigan will be hosting College Goal Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m.including: Grand Valley State University Pew Campus Building A, located at 401 Fulton St.; Davenport University-Holland campus, 643 South Waverly Rd. and Newaygo County Regional Educational Service Agency, 4747 West 48th St. in Fremont; Loutit District Library, 407 Columbus Drive in Grand Haven and Western Michigan University
Schneider Hall – Business Court, 1903 W Michigan Ave. in Kalamazoo.
For a complete list of locations and additional information visit the website.
Prizes will be awarded during events, including a $1,000 scholarship, two $500 scholarships, and three $250 scholarships. Additional support for College Goal Sunday was provided by the C.S. Mott Foundation, the Lumina Foundation for Education, and the DTE Energy Foundation.
Email: mscott@grpress.com and follow her on Twitter at Twitter.com/GRPScotty.
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