In a recent survey researching how many seniors have completed the FASFA form, it was discovered that 34 out of 100 students have completed the FASFA Form and 69 out of 100 students have not completed the FASFA form.

Students were encouraged to complete their FAFSA apps back in October when you could first submit it (on October 1).  In order to complete the FASFA, you need your social security number, driver’s license, your federal income tax returns, W-2s, and other records of money earned. You also need your parent’s income tax returns, W-2 forms and 1040 forms if you are a dependent.

So, what’s holding seniors back from completing the FAFSA:  lack of time, lack of information, a language barrier, or maybe just laziness?

“I forgot to do the FAFSA,” said Fernando Hernandez,  a senior student.

“I do not know where to start,” said Juan Ramirez, another senior.

Clearly, the school has been reaching out to seniors to take care of this.

“We talked to juniors; we gave seniors presentations and also have done phone calls.  Because it’s not part of their classes, kids put it off,” Ryan Smith from the College and Career center said. “I have a thought that maybe students think it might be a long and scary process, but it’s actually not that bad. We have ISAC representatives; they are here three days a week to assist students filling out the FAFSA form.  Maybe some of the students have a fear of a language barrier, but there are bilingual translators.”

Bilingual students were asked if they had summited their FASFA.

“Si ya lo complete,” said senior Mitzi Alvarado.

“No tengo suficiente tiempo y conosimiento de lo que se require,” said senior Jacqueline Lara.

Our news reporters asked the staff of the college and career center about the financial aid options for undocumented students.

‘’If the student is undocumented but lives in Illinois for three years, they can fill out the alternative application. Some scholarships require citizenship; others may not,” college and career center counselor Ryan Smith said.

If the student does not plan on attending to college, they may fill out a waiver form that they are not planning to attend college. So far, there have been only 15 waiver forms submitted.

So, if you’re currently a senior and have not completed the FASFA application or the waiver, what are you waiting for?  Set up an appointment in the College and Career center.