It’s FAFSA time! Tips and warnings when applying for college aid

http://www.bnd.com/news/local/article179330336.html

BELLEVILLE, IL (Elizabeth Donald, Belleville News Democrat.  Please click on the link above for the full story Here is an excerpt below)

’s time for the FAFSA, that rite of college that has become a familiar trial for students and parents wrangling with the cost of higher eduction – and now it starts earlier.

So here’s what you need to know about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, including the biggest mistakes you can make that can cost you thousands in financial aid, according to Experian and CollegeXpress:

It comes earlier in the year. In the past, FAFSAs were accepted beginning Jan. 1. Last year it was moved to Oct. 1, but some families are still holding off until January. Big mistake, according to Experian: some financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis, including the Illinois MAP grant. Assistance in 13 states is awarded in order of application, according to CNBC. In years past, Illinois MAP funds have run out three months or less after FAFSA applications were opened, so it pays to be first in line. There are multiple deadlines as well: the college deadline, state and federal deadlines