Texas Border Business –
McAllen, TX (February 10, 2015) – In the world of higher education, it is commonly known that the cost associated with college is one of the most difficult barriers students face when it comes to achieving their goals. To encourage students that the cost of college does not have to be a burden and to utilize available Federal Pell Grants, South Texas College is hosting events in February as part of Financial Aid Awareness Month. During the events, staff specialists will provide support, knowledge and one-on-one assistance with everything from filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to scholarship opportunities.
FAFSA Super Saturday will take place on February 21, 2015, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Pecan, Starr County & Mid-Valley Campuses. Financial Aid Fairs will also take place from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on February 24, at the Starr County Campus, February 25, at the Pecan Campus and February 26, at the Mid-Valley Campus.
“Last year, approximately 90% of our students who received financial aid were eligible for the full amount of Federal Pell Grant,” said Juan Miguel Galvan, STC director of student financial services. “The full amount of Federal Pell Grant for two semesters was $5645, while the average tuition & fees for two semesters for an in-district resident was $3240. On average, students had enough to cover their tuition & fees, plus had money left over for books, supplies, and other educational expenses. Unlike Federal Stafford Loans, Federal Pell Grants do not have to be repaid.”
Current and new students, including high-school seniors, are encouraged to attend FAFSA Super Saturday and the Financial Aid Fairs with their parents. It is an excellent way for both students and parents to understand the FAFSA form that must be submitted in order to be eligible for financial aid and is available at fafsa.ed.gov. In addition, parents can also receive free help preparing their income taxes with Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA).
“February is the perfect time to take advantage of our Financial Aid Fairs where our specialists can meet one-on-one with students and their families,” said Mike Carranza, associate dean of student financial services, testing & veteran affairs. “High school seniors are especially encouraged to attend FAFSA Super Saturday so they can utilize funds that are available for the summer 2015 semester. ”
Important items to have ready during FAFSA Super Saturday and the Financial Aid Fairs include:
- Student’s Social Security card (and parents’ if dependent)
- Student’s alien registration or permanent resident card (if not a U.S. citizen)
- Student’s Income Tax Return and W-2 Forms (if applicable)
- Parents’ Income Tax Return and W-2 Forms (if required)
- Parents’ Date of Birth, Marital Status Date, Social Security Numbers (if applicable)
- Untaxed income records including child support paid or received
With 114 degree and certificate program options in a variety of business, technology, liberal art, social science, math, science, nursing, and allied health fields of study, students have a range of options when it comes to pursuing their education. This includes online classes via South Texas College’s virtual campus eSTC. For additional information, call 956-872-8375 or visit southtexascollege.edu/financialaid.
