Pre-graduation is a stressful time for high school seniors, students awaiting decision letters and questioning how they will pay for college tuition. Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) helps students pay for college expenses.

Sultana High School is holding a financial aid and College expo on Friday, January 20,204; where students can obtain more information on financial aid. 

Chloe Taylor, a senior at SHS said, ‘’ I think it’s a great opportunity and all seniors going into college should fill out an application. Who doesn’t want free money?’’

FAFSA is an application where colleges determine student’s federal aid eligibility.  The FAFSA application was launched on December 30, 2023. After students fill out the application, the government will use the form to calculate how much money a student and their family can contribute to college costs. 

 For the government to determine eligibility, FAFSA asks questions about the parent and student’s income along with other factors such as the Student Aid Index (SAI). 

SAI is an eligibility index number that a college’s financial aid office uses to determine how much financial aid the student would receive. 

Angelina Calvillo, a senior at SHS said, “You get money from the government and you would not have to pay that much debt when you get older.”

Students with exceptional financial need may be eligible for grants. 

Reclassified Fluent English Proficient’s counselor Alice Rodas said  ‘’It’s important to submit it (FAFSA) early because some forms of financial aid are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.’’ 

 This financial aid application is a state-mandated graduation requirement for all seniors at SHS. 

Kimberlee Falahee and Amber Rodriquez at SHS are available to help students fill out the application.