It is a good idea for anyone who is thinking about college to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Completing the form does not obligate anyone to accept financial aid or loans but it is a good first step in the college process to learn about aid options that may be available. For people who think they might not be eligible for college financial aid, there are a variety of federal and state financial assistance options that may be available. Completing the FAFSA is required in order to take advantage of all the options that may be available.

In addition to it being a good idea, a new Illinois law will require all high school seniors to complete the FAFSA starting in the 2020-2021 school year. While the law does not go into effect for several more months, it is not too early for parents to begin looking at the FAFSA so that they are better prepared when it is required. Waubonsee Community College will host a series of events designed to help students and families complete the form.

The FAFSA for the 2020-2021 academic year is available starting on October 1. The FAFSA Fairs will feature discussions on how financial aid works as well as help with completing the 2020-2021 FAFSA. Computers will be available, but attendees are welcome to bring their own laptops.

To get assistance with completing the FAFSA, attendees will need to bring their Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID for both students and parents, Social Security Numbers for both students and parents, as well as 2018 federal tax returns for both students and parents, if available.

     The open house events will be held as follows:

  • Wednesday, Oct. 9, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. on the Aurora Downtown Campus, Room 243.
  • Wednesday, Oct. 16, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. on the Aurora Fox Valley Campus, Room 209.
  • Thursday, Oct. 17, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. on the Aurora Downtown Campus, Room 243.
  • Tuesday, Oct. 22, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. on the Sugar Grove Campus in the Academic and Professional Center, Room 165.
  • Wednesday, Oct. 30, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. on the Aurora Downtown Campus, Room 243.
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. on the Plano Campus, Room 121.

Visit www.waubonsee.edu/famonth for more information and to reserve a place at one of these events. There is also a 15-minute podcast on that web page that features financial aid and scholarship experts who explain the differences between sources of financial assistance for college.