The clock is ticking for families who still haven't filled out the FAFSA, a six-page federal form that gauges eligibility for government aid for college and other post-secondary schooling.
Though families are encouraged to submit early because some of the aid is doled out on a first-come, first-served basis, California applicants have until Monday to submit.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid – required for access to a number of federal and state grants and loans – has proved especially popular this year as families grapple with paying for college during a deep economic recession.
The Department of Education announced earlier this month that more than 2 million forms had already been submitted, 20 percent more than last year.
Patricia Fels, a counselor at Sacramento Country Day School, said she's noticed an increased interest in the FAFSA. Families who had never qualified for aid from the private school are looking for government money this year.
"There's a lot less certainty," Fels said. "People aren't sure if their jobs will continue or if their high salaries will continue."
About 30 people showed up to the school's fall financial aid workshop, compared to the normal attendance of 10 or so, a significant increase at a school with a senior class of about 40.
The rising interest in the FAFSA has fueled a boon for private companies offering help with the sometimes maddeningly confusing forms.
The FAFSA was created more than a decade ago to simplify the financial aid process. But with more than 100 questions, including some as obscure as the date of legal residency for the parent who's lived in the state the longest, the form still confounds.
Though free line-by-line help is available from a number of nonprofit and volunteer organizations, quick pay services have proved appealing to busy parents.
Student Financial Aid Services, a national financial aid consulting business based in Sacramento, offers one-on-one help with the FAFSA for $99.99, along with a cheaper online service. The business has seen a 35 percent increase in customers compared to last year.
"We are seeing more people with upper incomes applying this year, more than ever before," said company spokeswoman Mary Fallon. "We're hearing a lot of anxiety in people's voices."
Call The Bee's Robert Faturechi, (916) 321-1098.
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