College Goal Sunday Helps Students, Families File for Financial Aid

Hundreds of volunteers will help college-bound Michigan students and their families complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA at more than two dozen, statewide College Goal Sunday events February 12, 2012.

"For many students and their families, college seems like an unachievable and unaffordable dream," said state Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan. “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.”

College Goal Sunday is a collaborative effort of the Michigan 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. Last year, more than 1600 students received assistance at College Goal Sunday events.

"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." Statistics show that students who complete and submit FAFSA forms are more likely to go on to college.

On College Goal Sunday, student financial aid experts will be available to guide students and their parents through each step of completing and filing the FAFSA. Students under 23 years of age 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 on February 12, 2012. For a complete list of locations and additional information, visit www.EduCash.org.

Valuable prizes will be awarded during College Goal Sunday 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.