FAFSA Help Available at Nearly 40 MI College Goal Sites Statewide

College-bound students and their families will find completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) a breeze with hundreds of helpful volunteers at nearly 40 MI College Goal sites statewide in February. "Many students and their families find the FAFSA a big challenge,” State Superintendent Brian Whiston said. “The good news is these MI College Goal events provide student aid experts who can guide families through the complex applications and help get the most benefits for students wanting to go to college.” Thirty-eight sites are available to date for the 2016 MI College Goal, a team effort of the Michigan Department of Education, state Treasury, Michigan Student Financial Aid Association, and the nonprofit EduGuide, an online training program designed to strengthen core-learning skills. More information about event dates, times, and locations is available at www.micollegegoal.org. Traditionally, most events occur afternoons on the second Sunday in February. But this year site coordinators were given more flexibility, so only a dozen or so events are scheduled for Feb. 14th; the rest are spread out throughout the month. The FAFSA is required of all students seeking financial aid, including grants, loans, and many scholarships. Last year, more than 1,000 students received free help at MI College Goal events. According to feedback from students, many of whom qualified for thousands of dollars in financial aid, nine out of 10 reported that it’s worthwhile to attend MI College Goal. “The FAFSA is the most important form to access aid for college and vocational training,” said EduGuide President Bryan Taylor. “But like any tax form, it can sometimes be confusing. Volunteers are there to ensure families can complete the form ahead of the March 1 priority date, ensuring they’ll be able to maximize their funding.” Students under 23 years of age are encouraged to attend with a parent or guardian. Parents and students should bring their completed 2015 federal tax return (1040) if possible, or their W-2 and 1099 forms.