July 1 deadline for college students to file for FAFSA

Little kids usually are quick to declare what they want to be when they grow up: firemen, teachers, astronauts, doctors. But when those same young people graduate from high school, many remain undecided.

“It’s okay to take time to consider options,” said Nancy Williams, president of AIB College of Business in Des Moines. “However, an important deadline is approaching. Prospective students must file their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by July 1 to be eligible for state-funded financial aid programs, such as the Iowa Tuition Grant.”

Applying for financial aid is extremely important, Williams said, because education is a big investment. But the process also can be intimidating, so it’s smart for applicants to consult financial aid experts.

“Eighty-five percent of AIB’s students in 2010-11 received some type of grant or scholarship and our financial aid office can assist in navigating the applications,” Williams said.

Williams says that although time now is short to file the FAFSA, there is still time to enroll at some colleges.

“Actually, our counselors are happy to work with students who want to enroll for our terms beginning in August or November,” Williams said. “Students can get information at our Web site, www.aib.edu or by calling (800) 444-1921.”