Financial Aid Workshop
Joanne Dumbrigue helps a student apply for financial aid.
By Sandra Merino
It is the time of the year where students are getting ready to fill out their FASFA applications. There are workshops that are being held for students who don’t know how to fill out their applications. Joanne Dumbrigue is running the workshops. The dates of the workshops are as follows: February 5, 11:30-12:00 pm, February 10, 3:00- 4:00pm, February 23 6:00pm- 7:00pm, February 29 11:00-12:00pm, March 1st 10:00- 11:00am, March 2nd 2:00- 3:00 pm.
Joanne Dumbrigue mentioned, “Not all students qualify for financial aid due to their parents’ high income; however, students should not be distraught because there are other ways to pay for their schooling.” The Financial Aid Office provides scholarships and grants for students that don’t qualify for financial aid. Dumbrigue stated, “There is the Board of Governors Fee Waiver (BOG) which covers the student’s whole tuition at Taft College.” Students have to be a full time student at Taft College and maintain a 2.0 grade point average in order to qualify For the BOG Waiver.”
Difference Between The Dream Act and FASFA
The Dream Act application is only for undocumented students who want to pursue their education. The Dream Act Application only covers their tuition; therefore, students do not get financial aid money or money for their books. While on the other hand, FASFA is only for students who are citizens and residents in California. Their tuition gets covered, and they receive money to cover their schooling.
Last Day to Submit the FASFA or Dream Act Application
March 2nd is the due date to submit financial aid application. However, the Financial Aid Office will still be receiving applications after the due dates. There will still be workshops available after the due date. Dumbrigue mentioned, “I encourage students to fill out their application as soon as possible.”
Materials Needed To Complete the Application
First, students must create a user name and password to start an application. Students need their Social Security number, W-2 forms from parents, federal tax information. If students file taxes independently, they need their W-2 forms as well.
Financial Aid Disqualification
Students can get their financial aid taken away if he or she fails any classes. If a student does not maintain a 2. 0 grade point average, then they will be disqualified to receive any other help such as the BOG Waiver.
Dumbrigue mentions, “I encourage students to ask for help and if they have any questions to go to the Financial Aid Office. Financial aid provides help for those who want to have an education and be successful in life.”