Student Aid Application Deadline Approaching

Applicants must submit paper form or file electronically by May 1

Senator Don White is reminding families that the deadline for college-bound students to apply for State Grant aid is quickly approaching.

In order to be eligible for assistance, a 2007-08 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) must be submitted by May 1. Students and their families can either file a traditional form or submit an application electronically. However, those filing a paper form must allow enough time for mailing. Students who qualify may receive up to $4,500 in State Aid this year.

"I strongly urge the families of high school seniors to expeditiously file the FAFSA," Senator White said. "There are many grant and loan programs available for students and this application is the first step in securing that money."

Paper applications are available from school guidance counselors, college admissions offices or by calling the US Department of Education at 1-800-4-FED-AID. Online applications are available at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Those families who do not have internet access may apply electronically, after April 15, by calling 1-800-433-3243 and identifying themselves as a "Tele-FAFSA filer."