NEWS RELEASE

January 26, 2002

Alma Bowen 770-724-9018

Now Is Time to Apply for HOPE Scholarships and Other Financial Aid for College

  High school seniors and all Georgians planning to enter college this fall should begin applying for financial assistance as soon as possible. "The first step is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is used in determining eligibility for the federal Pell Grant and other grants and scholarships, including Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship Program," said Glenn Newsome, executive director of the Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC). "Students interested only in the HOPE Scholarship Program can fill out the HOPE Application," Newsome said.

  The FAFSA is available at the guidance counselor offices of all Georgia high schools; FAFSA and HOPE Applications are available at the financial aid offices of all Georgia colleges and universities. The forms also can be filled out electronically. The online version of the HOPE Application (called e-HOPE) can be found at www.gsfc.org/ehope, and the FAFSA can be accessed at www.fafsa.ed.gov

  "Every school has its own deadline for completion of the FAFSA, and students should check with the financial aid office of each school they are interested in attending," Newsome said. "It’s important to remember that earlier filing of FAFSA improves a student's chances for receiving financial assistance." Individuals who want to attend school in the fall of 2002 should file the FAFSA as early as possible after January 1, 2002. Filing instructions are on the form.

   Students must complete the HOPE application process through the financial aid offices of the Georgia public colleges, universities, or technical colleges of their choice, according to deadlines established by each institution.

   Students planning to attend an eligible private college or university in Georgia can apply for the HOPE Scholarship as well as the Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant and should complete the Georgia Tuition Equalization Grant Application, available at all eligible Georgia private colleges and universities.

   Some colleges and technical colleges also require students to complete an institutional financial aid application. Students should contact the financial aid office at the school they plan to attend for additional information.

   More information on applying for financial aid is available by calling the Georgia Student Finance Commission at 770-724-9000 in metro Atlanta, toll-free 800-776-6878, or at the Web site, www.gsfc.org.