February 21, 2008

Dear Parents,

There will be a senior financial aid night on Thursday, March 6^th at 6:00 p.m. in the high school computer lab. We will apply for financial aid through the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) on-line. I have included a list of information to bring with you.  If that information is unavailable, you can fill in as much as possible that night and fill in the missing information later. Also included is information on how to apply for a PIN, which is needed to complete the process. If you apply for and receive your PIN before the financial aid night, you can actually submit the FAFSA that evening.

Even if you do not think you will qualify for grants, most colleges now require students to apply for the FAFSA before they can apply for financial aid. In addition, some scholarships and grant programs require you to be turned down by the FAFSA first. Grants are free money from the federal government that you do not have to pay back.  If your student is on the recommended or distinguished program at school, they are eligible for the TEXAS grant.  However, they have to apply for the FAFSA to receive it. 

Your child is encouraged to come with you but is not required.  Please call if you have any questions.

Thank you,

Tammie Shaw

Ector ISD Counselor

903-961-8105