FAFSA Applications Now Available, Says Mensch

Students may file electronically for student loans

The 2010-2011 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available and students and their families can submit an application electronically, according to state Senator Bob Mensch.

The FAFSA is used to determine students' eligibility for almost all types of student aid, including state grants, Federal Pell Grants, Keystone Stafford Loans, regular Federal Stafford Loans and other federal and institutional programs.

"The costs of going to college continue going up and it is tougher and tougher for families to make ends meet. That's why I strongly urge the families of high school seniors to file the FAFSA," Senator Mensch said. "There are many grant and loan programs available for students and this application is the first step in securing that money."

Families are encouraged to visit www.pheaa.org/fafsa to access the 2010-11 online FAFSA and a FAFSA on the Web Worksheet to help walk them through the application process step by step. Students may also file online at www.fafsa.ed.gov .

Students planning to enroll in baccalaureate degree programs – including those enrolled in college transfer programs at community or junior colleges -- must file the FAFSA by May 1, 2010. Students planning to attend business, trade and technical schools; hospital schools of nursing, or two-year non-transferable programs at community, junior or four-year colleges must file the FAFSA by Aug. 1, 2010.