LBW Community College is participating in Alabama College Goal Sunday, a free program to help college-bound students and their families in opening the door for financial aid money for college.

The event for all of LBWCC’s service area is scheduled on March 2, 2014, 2 p.m., in the Dixon Conference Center at LBWCC in Andalusia. It is designed to help any student interested in attending college to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

“Completing the FAFSA is the first step for students to be considered for federal and state grants, loans and scholarships,” said Heather Owen, LBWCC director of recruitment.

“We invite all potential students interested in attending college, and their parents, to attend this free event to learn more about the types of financial aid available and get help in the application process.”

The event is open to all students, regardless of age, who are seeking financial aid to pay for college expenses for the upcoming academic year. Whether a student will graduate from high school in May, is a current college student, or an adult who is returning to pursue higher education, this event will provide assistance in completing the FAFSA accurately and on time.

Those planning to attend should plan to bring completed 2013 IRS income tax returns, W-2 forms, and other 2013 income and benefits information, said Owen.

Dependent students, usually those under the age of 24, should bring tax information for their parents as well as their own information if they worked last year.  Students age 24 or older may attend alone and bring their own 2013 tax, income and benefits information.

“Students can still attend even if the 2013 income information is incomplete or if they forget something,” said Owen. “The FAFSA may be completed at the event with estimated income from the 2013 W-2 forms.”

Students and parents will also receive valuable instructions and helpful hints during the event and submit the FAFSA once they do have the 2013 IRS income tax returns and other benefits.

“This is an opportunity for families to benefit from the knowledge of LBWCC’s financial aid staff and complete the application online during the event.”

No reservation is required. For more information, call 334-881-2282.