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College financial aid 101

Posted on January 18, 2013
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To get federal aid for college, you must first complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). If you have a college-bound senior, now is the time to get a FAFSA since students may complete one any time after January 1st of their senior year.

FAFSA is a comprehensive questionnaire that asks for details about the student applying and the student’s family income and assets. Answers help determine eligibility for federal financial aid. 

Because paying for college can be stressful, knowing how financial aid works is important.  One of the biggest mistakes families make is assuming they aren’t eligible for financial assistance.  Don’t fall into this trap. 

Request and file a FAFSA now.  There are 3 ways to get one:
 

  1. Apply online.
  2. Download and complete a PDF.  Note: PDF FAFSAs must be mailed for processing.
  3. Request a printed FAFSA by calling toll-free 1-800-433-3243 or 319-337-5665.  If you are hearing impaired, the TTY line is 1-800-730-8913.
Get more tips for paying for your student’s college. 



With your mobile device, text STUDENT to 22555 to receive text alerts about important education-related benefits and deadlines. Plus, don’t forget to

apply for the Union Plus Scholarship

.  Deadline is Thursday, January 31, 2013. 

Union members are also eligible for

college test (e.g. SAT, ACT, GMAT, GRE, etc.) preparation discounts

through The Princenton Review. 
 

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