2009 FAFSA Filing Begins
The U.S. Department of Education has already released the 2009-2010 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).FAFSA is the first step to getting monetary assistance from the government to pursue higher education. The FAFSA determines whether an applicant qualifies for any federal education grants and loans; many state and private student aid programs also base eligibility on FAFSA. Income, the size of the family, and the age of the oldest parent are some of the factors for eligibility.
Each year, more than $80 billion is made available through grants and loans to eligible students attending postsecondary schools. Of the estimated 14 million who apply, more than 10 million receive financial aid.
“Most families are eligible to receive some type of financial aid; they just have to take that first step and complete the application,” Education Secretary Margaret Spellings said.
