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, scheduled for LBWCC in Greenville on Feb. 17, 2013, 2-4 p.m., in the Wendell Mitchell Conference Center, is designed to help students interested in attending college in 2013 in filing 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 2012 IRS income tax returns, W-2 forms, and other 2012 income and benefits information, said Owen.

Dependent students, usually those under the age of 24, should bring tax information for their parents or legal guardians, as well as their own information if they worked last year.  Students age 24 or older may attend alone and bring their own 2012 tax, income and benefits information.

“Students can still attend even if the 2012 income information is incomplete or if they forget something,” said Owen. “The FAFSA may be completed at the event with estimated income from the 2012 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 2012 IRS income tax returns and other benefits.

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

No reservation is required. An additional event is scheduled for Andalusia on Feb. 24. For more information, call 334-881-2282.