09/27/2026
JLA Seniors this is for you whether you know your plans beyond high school or are undecided about going to college, now is the time to have your FASFA application ready and submitted. Why? The sooner you receive your award letter the better. You could start higher education in the spring. π§ππ§ Judson ISD Simon Youth Foundation
π¨ **ATTENTION HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS & PARENTS!** π¨
Mark your calendars: the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) officially opens nationwide on **October 1st**! ππ°
If you are graduating this school year and planning to attend college, university, or trade school, filling out the FAFSA is the single most important step you can take to pay for your education.
*What is the purpose of the FAFSA?*
The FAFSA calculates your financial aid eligibility and serves as your official key to unlocking funding for school:
* π Grants: Free financial assistance that you do not have to pay back (such as the federal Pell Grant).
* ποΈ Institutional Scholarships: Most colleges require a completed FAFSA on file before considering you for their own merit- or need-based scholarships.
* πΌ Work-Study Jobs: On-campus part-time employment options designed to help cover living expenses.
* π³ **Federal Loans:** Access to federal student loans, which offer fixed, lower interest rates and stronger consumer protections than private loans.
Why submit it right away on October 1st?
* β‘ First-Come, First-Served Funding: Many state aid programs and individual college grants operate on limited budgets and hand out money until funds run out.
* π― Beat Priority Deadlines: Filling it out early ensures you easily meet early state and university priority deadlines.
How to get ready before October 1st:
1. Create an account: Head to StudentAid.gov to set up an account (FSA ID) for the student and any required parent contributors.
2. Gather documents: Have your identification details and tax documents ready so you can complete the form quickly once it goes live.
Remember, the FAFSA is **100% FREE** to fileβnever pay anyone to complete it for you!
Tag a senior or parent who needs to GET READY! π