craigdailypress.com

Craig — The time to plan college financial aid strategies has arrived for Moffat County High School seniors.

Although many in-state financial aid deadlines don't arrrive until March, college-bound students should start applying now for scholarships and federal aid, counselor Paula Duzik said.

A workshop scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Moffat County High School library, 900 Finley Lane, is designed to give seniors and their parents a hand in the process.

"Everyone needs to come," Duzik said. "Whether they think they're going to qualify for financial aid or not, they really should come because you never know."

The financial aid workshop will touch on the kinds of loans students can take out to help fund their college education.

Residents also will learn how to fill out the online Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

Students and their parents can benefit by filling out the form as soon as possible. Federal aid is distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis, Duzik said, adding that students' financial need also plays a factor.

Students can begin filling out the form now. However, their parents must have their 2008 tax information on hand to complete the FAFSA.

Tuesday's workshop also will provide information about local scholarships, many of which are not yet available, Duzik said.

But, that's about to change.

Applications for local scholarships usually are offered in January and must be submitted in mid-March. The same deadline applies for other in-state financial aid opportunities.

Duzik plans to provide a step-by-step guide to the scholarship application process, as well as information about scholarships offered by colleges and universities.

Tuesday's meeting isn't geared solely toward students. It also will address parents' role in helping their children secure money for college.

"Parents really need to be real heavily involved in this financial aid process, I think," Duzik said. "It really needs to be a team effort when it comes to financial aid."

Bridget Manley can be reached at 875-1795 or bmanley@craigdailypress.com