A workshop for Spanish speaking students and their families will be held at the HACC Campus, 1641 Old Philadelphia Pike, room 227, on Thursday, March 18, 6-7:30 p.m. A workshop open to the general public will be held at the same location, Thursday, April 1, 6-7:30 p.m.
Presenters will discuss all sources and types of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, work programs and student loans. Discussion will include the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the application used to determine what students will receive in funding.
The workshops will offer tips in how to avoid common errors made on the FAFSA.
Professionals will be available to answer any questions regarding the aid process, as well as individual concerns.
Families are encouraged to bring their 2003 Federal Tax Returns, W-2s and documentation for untaxed income.
"These workshops will cover commonly asked questions and clarify much of the misunderstanding about financial aid" said Leanne Frech, senior administrative specialist, Financial Aid, at the Lancaster Campus of HACC.
"For example, financial aid is not just for low-income families. Many families don't realize that even those with higher household incomes still may be eligible for benefits such as low interest loan programs or loans that don't have to be repaid until after graduation," said Frech.
The Lancaster Campus of HACC's student population has exploded over the past two years. A near doubling in enrollment is attributed to several factors including HACC's affordability, a slow economy, the new campus, program development and quality education.
Many parents also are encouraging children to earn an associate's degree at HACC and then transfer to another school.
HACC is fully-accredited, and its credits transfer to colleges nationally. HACC currently has 40 formal transfer agreements, as well as dual admission programs which allow students to enroll at HACC and a variety of four-year schools simultaneously.
Financial aid is available to those who qualify. Information about the financial aid workshops may be obtained by calling (717) 358-2992.