So this title is really for the parents out there (or the older students, maybe). Anyone remember the Beach Boys classic “Help Me Rhonda”? Maybe we need to write a spoof called “Help me FAFSA”?
I’m not the Beach Boys, but I do have some suggestions on where to get help for your FAFSA.
If you are stuck and don’t know where to begin, the best bet is to begin by completing your FSA (Federal Student Aid) ID. The FSA ID is your electronic signature and for many students (and parents) this can be the hardest part of the process. If you have questions about the FSA ID, this link provides many of the common issues and problems and gives the answers for them.
Once you have your FSA ID (remember, the student needs one and – for dependent students – at least one parent needs one), it is time to complete the FAFSA itself. FAFSA is a free application and you should never pay someone to complete the FAFSA for you! If you do need help, you can get free help in the following ways.
- Check with your local high school to see if they offer a high school financial aid night! Many local high schools have college nights (or college financial aid nights) where a local college representative will come to the school and talk about financial aid, answer your questions, and perhaps offer a FAFSA completion lab. You want to make sure that the person presenting at your high school is reputable (and not trying to sell you anything), so ask if they actually work at a college before you attend. Moneyman (that’s me) has presented at more than 300 of these nights, and they are a great way to learn the facts about financial aid and the FAFSA.
- Check to see if your state or college is offering a “Form Your Future” event. Many local colleges offer free events, often titled “Form Your Future” or “College Goal Sunday“. The free events allow you to come to campus, get hands on help completing your FAFSA, and hear from practicing financial aid administrators. Valencia College (in Kissimmee and Orlando), as an example, titles their event “FAFSA Frenzy” and it is held this year on October 15, 17, and 24 (check the web page for which day on which campus).
- Check out the free Florida Virtual Shines College Week events being offered by Florida’s Department of Education. This three day event (from October 28-30) offers a number of free online sessions each evening on Financial Aid and Admissions topics (and the best part is they are recorded for later playback). You never have to leave your computer to participate!
Of course, there is one more source! Moneyman is here to help!
Have you started your FAFSA? What questions have you run into? How can I help you complete the form?
With apologies to the Beach Boys, maybe you are singing this song:
Well since October first I’ve been thinkin’ ‘bout it in my head
“Help Me FAFSA” by Moneyman
I come in late at night and in the mornin’ I just lay in bed
Well, FAFSA you look so fine (look so fine)
And I know it’s gonna take some time
For me to do the FAFSA
Help me get it finished today!
Help me FAFSA
Help, help me FAFSA
Help me FAFSA
Help, help me FAFSA
Help me FAFSA
Help, help me FAFSA
Help me FAFSA
Help, help me FAFSA
Help me FAFSA
Help, help me FAFSA
Help me FAFSA
Help, help me FAFSA
Help me FAFSA yeah
Get it finished today
Moneyman's College Financial Aid Blog 