HARRISBURG, January 16, 2007 –- Families with college students should act now to file for financial aid, said state Sen. Wayne D. Fontana.

FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is used to determine eligibility for federal, state and collegiate-level student aid.

“A college education is a very expensive endeavor, and I encourage students and their families to explore every possible grant and loan prospect,” Fontana said. “Students should complete the FAFSA as soon as possible to ensure that they do not miss any important student aid deadlines.

“FAFSA forms are available for free from a number of sources, including online and at my local district offices.”

The FAFSA form can be obtained from school counselors and postsecondary schools. Families can also complete and submit the FAFSA online at www.fafsa.ed.gov or www.EducationPlanner.org
EducationPlanner.org also offers a free tutorial to help families better understand and complete the FAFSA.

FAFSA forms are also available in the Senator’s district offices in Brookline (412) 344-2551 or Kennedy Township (412) 331-1208.
Workshops to assist families in completing the FAFSA will be held throughout Pennsylvania from January through March. To view a complete list of workshops, visit www.PHEAA.org and click on “Plan for College,” then click on “Complete the FAFSA,” and then click on “Locations and Registration.”