As students are busy completing their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) stated that February is Financial Aid Awareness Month. Lynne Baker, Managing Director of Communications with ISAC, told Regional Radio News that the FAFSA should be filed as soon as possible, since it determines a student’s eligibility of federal, state, and college financial aid programs.

There are currently 70% of students in bachelor degree programs in Illinois that graduate with student loan debt. Baker added the FAFSA is also determines a student’s eligibility for federal student loans.

Baker also encouraged high school seniors to attend their FAFSA informational meetings with their parents at their respective high school. More information can be found by going to isac.org/studentportal or collegeillinois.org.