FLOC is committed to ensuring that every student obtains a postsecondary credential, which requires the financial means necessary to obtain it. The high cost of college and vocational school can present a barrier to our students and their families. But financial aid opens doors for students pursuing a postsecondary degree. To that end, FLOC staff and volunteers are gearing up for financial aid season.
The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) opened on New Year’s Day. It is critical in accessing scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities for college-going students. We know that our students benefit greatly from financial aid and have been working tirelessly to ensure they complete the FAFSA, accurately and on time. Our 12th grade coaches will be equipped to provide one-on-one support to all of our high school seniors. Our Scholars who are currently pursuing postsecondary degrees will receive a step-by-step how-to guide on completing the FAFSA, with additional support provided by staff and volunteers. And while the FAFSA can be completed well into 2016, Scholars are encouraged to “Apply online by Valentine” to ensure they are among the first in line to receive the maximum amount of aid.
Scholars are also diligently working on their DCTAG (Tuition Assistance Grant), DC-CAP (DC College Access Program), institutional aid, and a whole host of scholarship applications. Scholars will even have the opportunity to participate in social media campaigns and enter raffle competitions.
As acceptance letters and financial aid awards begin to roll in, FLOC staff will have critical conversations with students and their families to ensure clear understanding of what can be a maze of postsecondary jargon. Our students and families are committed to their educational success and with the guidance provided by FLOC, they are well on their way to successful postsecondary careers.
The countdown has begun and we are ready to make this a fruitful financial aid season!
(Lindsey Barclay is the Scholars Program Manager)
