Mapping Your Future: It's more important than ever to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid

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It's more important than ever to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid

By Catherine Mueller

June 01, 2020

And here's why. . .

If your college plans are up in the air due the COVID-19 pandemic and you've put off applying for financial aid, now is the time to go ahead and complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The reason for completing the FAFSA - even if you aren't sure - is it keeps your options open. Just as the world has changed in ways we didn't predict in early 2020, the same could happen in the future. By completing the FAFSA, you're giving yourself the option to pursue your education no matter what happens.

However, completing the FAFSA won't commit you to pursuing your education. While it's always a good idea to pursue education, it is understandable that you may have other concerns to address due to the pandemic.

There are resources to assist if you are concerned about pursuing your education beyond high school during the pandemic. Contact the counselor at your high school, the student affairs office at school or college you are considering, or Mapping Your Future.

While this year has been challenging, don't let what has happened - if at all possible - impact your focus on what could be a very exciting future.