Around this time of year I start to hear this phrase, “Well, we didn’t do a FAFSA. We won’t qualify for any assistance anyway.”

My response: “How do you know?”

The FAFSA, the free application for federal student aid, entitles qualifying students for many different kinds of funding, which, of course, include need-based Loyola grants, government grants like Pell and TOPS, but also a host of federal loan options, too. By not completing a FAFSA, families severely limit their options even to learn about what might be out there, and, of course, they lose their access to it.

The Department of Education has simplified the FAFSA application process. Sending us your completed FAFSA – which you can do online – lets us review with you all of your financing options. We have great information on our website at http://www.loyno.edu/financialaid/completing-fafsa  to assist you if you have questions as you complete the form. The 7 easy steps piece is super helpful, too.

So, here’s the link for FAFSA: www.fafsa.ed.gov If you have not yet done so, complete one today if you intend to enroll as a new student in fall 2012.

If you are a returning student with financial assistance, you have to complete a new FAFSA every year. So, be sure to complete yours soon. Our priority deadline is May 1.

Learn more – so much more – on our financial aid and scholarships webpage.