FAFSA

After working hard to earn good grades, completing applications and finally being admitted into school, one major obstacle remains in the college admissions process: financial aid. However, a new citywide initiative aimed at helping students complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (

FAFSA

) form is lightening the burden students feel when it comes to financing their education. On Feb. 3, Mayor Michael Nutter, Superintendent Arlene Ackerman, community and civic groups introduced the Philly Goes 2 College Campaign, which assists students in filing their

FAFSA

forms. ?Since I took office last year, one of my central goals has been to increase the number of Philadelphians going to college,? Nutter said. ?We know that now, more than ever, we must encourage our city?s young people and adults to reach higher and get their college degrees. Their academic achievement is important for their own lives, and our community as a whole. With this campaign, we are now focusing on the first step for many, which is financial aid.? Joining the mayor?s office and the School District of Philadelphia in the battle for bucks is Dawn Roberts within the Department of Education?s office of federal student aid. Roberts encourages students to apply as soon as possible, whether they have decided to attend college or not. ?Philadelphia is considered one of the cities that hasn?t taken advantage of

FAFSA

,? she said. ?Young people aren?t getting online to fill out the form for a couple different factors. Some students may not realize they want to go to college until last minute. If they?re not sure, do it anyway. For

FAFSA

, that?s the first step of going to college.? In order to complete

FAFSA

forms, students must have their parent or guardian?s social security or alien registration number, driver?s license number, W-2 Forms from 2007 or 2008, 1040 federal income tax return and records of untaxed income such as TANF, social security, welfare or veterans benefits. ?For those students who think

FAFSA

forms available for students to file Mayor Michael Nutter, right, and School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Arlene Ackerman, center, are joined by Community College of Philadelphia President Stephen Curtis. ? PHOTOS BY TONY WEBB/ CITY OF PHILADELPHIA their parents income is too much, sometimes that?s not the case,? said Donna Frisby-Greenwood, director of college and career awareness for the Philadelphia school district. ?While they may not be eligible for federal grants, they may be eligible for loans. Scholarship and grants from the college.? While Frisby-Greenwood, who is working with Mayor Michael Nutter watches as participants of the Philly Goes 2 College campaign receive assistance with filing

FAFSA

forms online. ? PHOTOS BY TONY WEBB/ CITY OF PHILADELPHIA the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA), says many students understand the importance of

FAFSA

and they are taking the matter seriously, she urges them to be cognizant of deadlines schools may specify for when they would like

FAFSA

forms complete. ?As tuition costs continue to rise, the challenge of finding and applying for financial aid grows more complex,? Ackerman said. ?The process can be overwhelming. Without a question, we are seriously committed to increasing supports and programs to help any Philadelphia student who wants to go to college.? For more information, please visit www.phila.gov/residents/education/fafsa.html Adults in need of

FAFSA

assistance must call the Graduate! Philadelphia Center at (215) 574-1341, ext. 107. The following locations are offering students assistance with

FAFSA

forms: Where: College Access Gallery Center (9th and Market streets) Phone contact: (215) 574-1341 Time: 6 to 7 p.m. Dates: Feb. 17, 2009 Feb. 18, 2009 Feb. 24, 2009 Feb. 25, 2009 Where: College Access West Center (4548

FAFSA

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February 17, 2009 / PAGE 3

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