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College Goal Sunday Helps Students, Families File for Financial Aid
February 04, 2014
February 4, 2014
LANSING – Hundreds of Michigan College Goal volunteers will fan out to more than 30 locations statewide Feb. 9, 2014 from 2-4 p.m. to help college-bound students and their families complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA.
"For many students and their families, college seems like an unachievable and unaffordable dream," said State Superintendent Mike Flanagan. “Michigan College Goal locations have experts who can help families complete these complex applications and maximize awards for students wanting to go to college.”
Michigan College Goal is a collaboration of the Michigan Department of Education, Michigan Guaranty Agency, Michigan Student Financial Aid Association and EduGuide. Additional support for MI College Goal was provided by USA Funds, C.S. Mott Foundation and DTE Energy Foundation.
The program’s mission is 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 from public or private institutions.
"It is critical that high school seniors and their parents are aware of these Michigan College Goal 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."
Statistics show that students who submit FAFSA forms are more likely to go on to college.
During Michigan College Goal, financial aid experts will be available, at no charge, to guide students and their families through each step of completing and filing the FAFSA. Students under 23 are encouraged to attend with a parent or guardian. Parents and students should bring their completed 2013 Federal tax return (1040) if possible, or their W-2 and 1099 forms. It typically takes 30 to 45 minutes to complete the form.
For a full list of Feb. 9, 2014, Michigan College Goal locations and more information, visit www.micollegegoal.org.
Last year, more than 1,000 students received assistance at Michigan College Goal events.
The program helped Michigan become first in the nation during the last decade to increase the percentage of low-income students seeking financial aid. To celebrate this achievement, students may compete for a $1,000 scholarship, an iPad mini and other awards at this year’s events.