FAFSA deadline quickly approaches

With the deadline for FAFSA approaching, the computer labs in the Delta College library were filled with students and parents filling out forms on Feb. 9.

Delta was hosting College Goal Sunday, a national event that started nine years ago in Michigan. The event is to help students and parents fill out FAFSA forms for the first time or to renew FAFSA.

All of Delta's financial aid advisers as well as advisers from SVSU and Northwood University were there to help with the FAFSA forms.

Students and parents were set up at a computer, where they filled out the FAFSA forms, which were then double checked by a financial aid adviser.

"We're around to answer questions and double check for accuracy, before they hit the submit button," said financial aid adviser Elvina Sika.

Many of the parents and students at the event found it helpful.

“It’s definitely helpful for students without resources or don’t know how to fill out the forms,” said Samantha Cockrum, 17, of Midland.

“It’s nice to see the other parents who are also struggling,” said Jeanne Townsend, 53, of Auburn. “It’s a great help and it’s centrally located, making it easier.”

Students had a chance to fill out a survey for the opportunity to win a $1000 scholarship, an iPad Mini or an Amazon gift card.

The event’s name is changing to College Goal Event because colleges hosting it are trying to help students on more than one day. Delta is holding a number of FAFSA workshops, while other colleges hold different events.

"We try to be as accessible as possible," said Sika.

Sika said that it’s important for students to be checking their college email and their MyDelta pages so they know if they qualify for financial aid.

The FAFSA deadline for Michigan is March 1 at midnight. The federal deadline is June 30 at midnight. 12