As Quincy University students prepare for the next school year, they are being encouraged to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to receive financial assistance.

FAFSA opened earlier this winter, but some students are left feeling uncertain about the process or waiting until the last minute to fill it out. The form requires personal information, including income details and tax documents from both the student and the parent.

According to the Federal Student Aid website, the form is available for any student, regardless of income, who wants to be considered for federal, state, and school financial aid programs. This includes grants, scholarships, work-study funds, and loans. The FAFSA form is used to determine the amount of financial aid students are eligible to receive. Though the form is beneficial for students to complete, some students may find it frustrating.

“The form takes a while and is very repetitive. It’s best to get it over with and fill it out,” Samantha Farrell, freshman, said.

The form must be filled out every year, but it can be made simple. Most people take an average of 30 minutes to complete, including gathering any personal documents and financial information needed.

“It’s irritating and can feel like a lot, especially having to redo it every year. Just make sure you have all of the information that they ask for,” Hailee Irby, junior, said.

A common misconception about the form is that it only helps students with significant financial needs. In reality, the form is used to determine a range of financial options, such as unsubsidized loans or scholarships. One of the most well-known programs is the Pell Grant, a grant that does not need to be repaid, which is given to students.

In addition to grants, the FAFSA can determine students’ eligibility to do a work-study program, giving students the opportunity to work on campus to get paid while completing their education.

Despite its importance, students still delay filling out the FAFSA because they believe that it may be too complicated. QU’s financial aid office has begun to advertise the FAFSA form and its benefits to students.

“It’s ok to feel overwhelmed. If you are overwhelmed, come into our office, we can help you. That’s what we are here for. It’s to the student’s advantage that they fill it out as soon as possible,” Julie Fischer, financial aid adviser, said.

QU’s financial aid office is available for students to receive help with their FAFSA form and any other financial aid questions.

As college costs continue to rise, financial aid programs remain an important resource for students to achieve their goals. Filling out the FAFSA form can help students access funding that can make getting a degree a little more manageable. At QU, advisors are available to provide assistance and guide students through what some could call a “tedious” process.

According to the QU website, 100% of students receive some form of financial aid. The FAFSA form is necessary for all students to complete.