West Virginia University wants to make sure its students are getting all the help they can to get an education this week through Financial Aid Awareness Week.
More students than ever are looking for help to pay for college, and one federal form is key to connecting students with available resources.
"The number of students who have to seek loans to help out with their education, unfortunately that number is growing," said Evelyn Hansen, a counselor with WVU's Financial Aid Office.
It's up to counselors like Hansen to use loans, grants, scholarships and more to meet those needs.
"Every year it's more challenging to assist our students in getting aid to cover their needs in tuition, fees, and room and board, books and supplies," Hansen said, "just the whole gamut of college expenses."
According to its website, tuition at WVU can range from $5,000 to $17,000 for undergrads, with another $8,000 for room and board.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the gateway to filling in those funding gaps. Last year, WVU received 41,000 FAFSA applications.
"Students are not eligible for federal aid programs unless they complete the FAFSA," Hansen said, "so it really is the starting point for the aid process."
It can be intimidating for students and their parents- though, that's why WVU is one of 19 places in the state taking part in College Goal Sunday, a free workshop to fill out FAFSA forms.
"It helps people to feel that they're not alone in this process, there is help for them. It is free help and it's encouraging them to file early," Hansen said. "Meeting that March 1 deadline is key."
College Goal Sundays are happening across the country in February.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2012 WorldNow and WBOY. All Rights Reserved.