| Dinniman: Time to Apply for College Financial Aid |
January 14, 2008 CONTACT: DIANE SHEPPARD WEST CHESTER - State Senator Andy Dinniman announced the beginning of the financial aid application season for the 2008-2009 academic year. “I invite high school seniors and their families to contact my office to request information about educational financing options through PHEAA.” Dinniman said. “You will find that the dream of higher education is actually closer to reality than it seems.” The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) administers financial aid matters for the Commonwealth. PHEAA offers low-cost loans, scholarships and work-study programs where students can gain on-the-job experience while earning money to help pay for school. Some programs relate to specific areas of study or are available to particular individuals such as the Loan Forgiveness Programs offered to nursing students and families of veterans. Some benefits are available to part-time students and graduate students. In addition to the assistance presented by PHEAA, colleges offer further aid directly. The first step in seeking financial aid from any State or Federal grant or loan program is to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA worksheet is available at Senator Dinniman’s West Chester District Office and can be submitted online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. To complete the application you will need information found on your 2007 tax return. “I strongly recommend that you apply early since some aid is available on a first come first serve basis,” Dinniman added. “A representative from my office will be glad to provide you with information and assist you with any questions you may have.” Remember, the deadline for state aid is May 1, 2008, for undergraduate bachelor degree programs. For more information contact Senator Dinniman’s district office at 1 North Church Street, West Chester, PA 19380, (610) 692-2112. ### |