News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
The Tennessee Higher Education Commission is offering free FAFSA clinics to give Upper Cumberland families hands-on support while applying for federal student aid.
Senior Outreach Director Jason Seay said they have always had FAFSA workshops at high schools and colleges throughout the state but families need more support this year. Seay said last year’s revamping of the system has led to technical issues and some parental concerns.
“If someone has not done it yet, perhaps because they’ve heard of some the struggles out there, you know, this is why we’re encouraging and having these in-person events where they can come and get that one-on-one support if they feel like they may be unable to do it on their own,” Seay said.
Seay said it is important to apply for the FAFSA because it is required to be eligible for many different kinds of scholarships and need-based aid. Clinics are scheduled to come to the Upper Cumberland at the following locations: DeKalb County High School on Tuesday, July 23, Vol State’s Livingston Campus on Wednesday, July 24, Motlow State’s Sparta Campus on Monday, July 29, and Clay County High School on Tuesday, July 30.
He said that August 1 is the deadline to be eligible for the Tennessee Promise scholarship and September 1 is the deadline for the Hope Scholarship, Tennessee Reconnect Program, and any financial aid from the federal government.
“We’re encouraging, again, any student looking to go to any college,” Seay said. “Two-year, four-year, public, private, or technical college, you know, now’s the time to do the FAFSA. If you’ve put it off because you’ve heard, you know, some of the struggles that families have had nationwide, the support’s there.”
Seay said they also have a team of fifty-five FAFSA coaches that can meet with families via phone or a virtual appointment as well. Seay said that additional information about their events and other resources can be found on their website at College For TN Dot Org Slash FAFSA.
