Students and families get help filing for financial aid

During Michigan’s economic recovery, many people are pursuing higher education and ways to afford it. College Goal Sunday is a statewide initiative designed to increase the number of students who continue education beyond high school and earn post-secondary degrees.

On Sunday, February 12, financial aid experts from Grand Valley will participate in College Goal Sunday by guiding students through each step of completing and filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form or FAFSA. The FAFSA is required of any student seeking financial aid including grants, loans and many scholarships.

Statistics show students who complete and submit FAFSA forms are more likely to go on to college. Students should bring a completed 2011 IRS 1040 tax return, if possible, or their W-2 and 1099 forms.

College Goal Sunday
February 12
2-4 p.m.
DeVos Center, Building A
401 W. Fulton St.
GVSU Pew Grand Rapids Campus

College Goal Sunday began in Michigan in 2004, and since then more than 4,500 students have received help submitting the FAFSA. Last year, more than 1,600 students received assistance at College Goal Sunday events. Prizes will be awarded during College Goal Sunday events across the state, including a $1,000 scholarship, two $500 scholarships, and three $250 scholarships.

Other College Goal Sunday sites in West Michigan include:
Grand Haven, Loutit District Library
Holland, Davenport University
Muskegon, Muskegon Community College

For more information, contact Michelle Rhodes, director of Financial Aid at Grand Valley, at (616) 331-3234 or visit wwwhttp://www.micollegegoal.org.