October 14, 2003

Planning aid for higher education
relieves tensions for students, families

Cindy Bussanmas
digital iowa staff reporter
Drake University

DES MOINES, Iowa –– The expense of higher education can be significantly reduced when students take advantage of grant, scholarship and loan programs -- that is, when students know what financial aid is available and how to go about applying for it.

The Iowa College Student Aid Comission is a state agency that helps students and families navigate through the financial aid process. The commission advocates for Iowa students and administers loan, grant and scholarship programs to help students finance education expenses at universities and colleges.

The commission has $55 million available for student aid for the academic year 2004-2005 and there are approximately 27,000 need-based scholarships, grants and work-study programs offered.

According to Julie Leeper, director of state student aid programs at Iowa College Student Aid Commission, the majority of funding is allocated to the Iowa Tuition Grants program.

Qualifying students receive a maximum grant of $4,000 per year for up to four years of full-time undergraduate education. Applicants must be Iowa residents and must be enrolled at one of Iowa's 36 independent colleges or universities.

Financial aid opportunities are offered equally to all students in Iowa and priority is given to applicants with the greatest need. "The guidelines are the same for everyone, we don't compartmentalize students," Leeper said. "All individuals must demonstrate need in the same manner."

Leeper said, "Financial need is determined by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid." She explained how the FAFSA requires the expected family contribution and cost of attendance. The difference between the expected family contribution and cost of attendance determines the applicants financial need.

Students must complete a FAFSA to receive most types of state and federal financial aid. The form is available online beginning Jan. 1, 2004, for the academic year 2004-2005, and paper forms are also available.

Prior to filling out the FAFSA, students need to know what colleges and universities they would like to attend. They also need to begin thinking about letters of recommendation from references and about writing essays, since most colleges and universities require essays as part of the process.

"Students need to begin the college enrollment process when they are juniors," Leeper said. She said the anxiety felt by students and their families preparing for college typically occurs because they are uninformed and/or miss deadines.

Many funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis; therefore, it's important for students to complete the FAFSA as soon as possible after Jan. 1.

Students and families with questions about financial aid should contact the Iowa College Student Aid Commission, financial aid offices at individual colleges or the College Planning Center in Iowa.

"We want students and their families to understand that there are a lot of free resources available to them," Leeper said, "from explaining programs and eligibility to hands-on help with completing applications."