Looking for ways to lower the cost of college, but not sure where to begin? The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the first step in the financial aid process, and the window to apply is fast approaching.

Here’s what you need to know to make completing the FAFSA as simple as possible.

1. File early for a better chance at receiving more money

For financial aid covering the 2021-2022 academic year, the FAFSA filing season kicks off Oct. 1, 2020. Don’t wait until the last minute because awards are given on a first come, first served basis.

2. Remember that many states and colleges have early deadlines

While June 30, 2022 is the federal deadline, some colleges and states set their own—and often much earlier—deadlines for students applying for state aid. To make sure your student doesn’t miss an important date, the best thing you can do is submit the FAFSA as quickly as possible when October rolls around.

3. 90% of parents complete the FAFSA form wrong

But don’t let this discourage you! When you break it down, completing the FAFSA is actually pretty simple—if you know what to expect. Class 101 is here to walk you through the process, or even complete the forms for you.

4. Families that don’t think they qualify should STILL apply

Unless your family really wants to pay for college completely out of pocket, it’s a good idea to complete the FAFSA. In addition to some colleges using the FAFSA to verify citizenship, it can also help students who don’t qualify for need-based aid get special recruitment scholarship offers. The government also requires students to complete a FAFSA if they wish to take advantage of any federal student loans. In addition, information from the FAFSA can be used to award students with non-federal aid.

5. Many forms of financial aid are available

There are countless ways to make college more affordable. For example, your student may be eligible to receive scholarships, grants, Stafford loans, athletic scholarships, state funds, federal money, work-study, pell grants, FSEOG grants, parent PLUS loans, state grants, talent scholarships and/or major or degree scholarships.

 Webinar alert!

To make this FAFSA season a breeze, join Class 101 President Tom Pabin for a nationwide webinar on Thursday, Sept. 17 at 7:00 p.m. EDT. This one-hour event will be hosted via Zoom to help families start the FAFSA process. With over two decades of experience, Tom has completed more than 2,000 FAFSA forms! Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How to fill out the FAFSA form
• How to stay on top of deadlines
• How to manage the entire financial aid process
• The “financial aid formula”
• Which documents are required to complete the form
• How to lower the total cost of college

Ready to secure your spot? Register in advance for this webinar at:
https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_xCIKXYqlRsW6WE97jiWJ8w

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with access to the webinar event. See you on Sept. 17!