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iConquer: Don’t let tuition stand in your way, visit Financial Aid soon to complete your FAFSA

February 11, 2013

iConquer logoWe all know that when it comes to financial aid, there are only so many dollars to go around. Financial aid can only offer so much to so many people.

Completing your FAFSA early is a sure way to feel accomplished and secure in knowing your financial situation for school next year.

But having motivation is only half of the battle in certain situations. How can we be proactive if we do not posses the knowledge of how to complete the task?

At Northern Illinois University, resources are abundant.

From 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Friday through the end of the semester, staff in Room 245 of Swen Parson Hall will provide the support and direction you need to complete your FAFSA. There will be people there who have answers to all of your questions.

It is important to do this quickly and correctly.

Certain types of financial aid award are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Eligible students completing the FAFSA early might beat the the MAP grant cutoff date, which could mean as much as $4,968 in extra aid – and fewer student loans to worry about later.

Waiting for a catch? Keep waiting. This opportunity is completely free. The only cost is a little bit of your time on a Friday morning, which means your evening will still be free.

Doing this can only make life less stressful, so why wouldn’t you? Do not deprive yourself of the awesome opportunities offered. It will be quick, painless and ultimately beneficial.

For more information, visit the NIU Student Financial Aid website or chat online, call (815) 753-1395 (1-800-892-3050 toll-free) or email finaid@niu.edu.

by Jeanette Gaudio

Editor’s note: Jeanette Gaudio’s “iConquer” column will appear frequently in NIU Today this semester, offering tips from campus professionals to help students keep their academic resolutions and achieve their educational goals. Gaudio is a communication major and student intern in NIU Media and Public Relations.