Making College Possible: Millersville’s FAFSA Fiesta

This summer, Millersville University's Office of Financial Aid is hosting the FAFSA Fiesta event series. These events are designed to assist students and their families in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid while providing access to financial aid experts in a supportive, relaxed atmosphere. The events are free and open to everyone, regardless of whether they plan to attend Millersville. Completing the FAFSA is a crucial step in securing the financial aid needed to help make college possible.

We spoke with Emiyaril Alvarez, Millersville University's Director of Financial Aid, to learn more about the upcoming events and their benefits to our community.

When and where will the events take place?
The FAFSA Fiesta events will be held on July 16 and August 16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Ware Center in downtown Lancaster. People can stop in at any time that is convenient for them, but it is strongly encouraged to register for the date and timeframe you plan to attend. To register and learn more about this initiative, go to millersville.edu/possible.

What languages will be spoken?
Our diverse and dedicated financial aid team will provide personalized, one-on-one assistance, with support available in 8 different languages. Language support includes English, Spanish, Swahili, Arabic, Nepali, Hindi, Nigerian Pidgin and Yoruba. People can chat with financial aid experts in their native language and enjoy refreshments.

What do you hope to accomplish with the events?
The goal of these FAFSA Fiesta events is to help students toward the path of making college possible. The 2024-25 Free Application for Federal Student Aid form has posed numerous challenges. Our team is committed to helping people navigate this process and secure the financial aid they need. In conjunction with Millersville University's "Make College Possible: Get FAFSA Ready" campaign, we aim to increase FAFSA submission rates in our local community and across the state of Pennsylvania.

What should people bring with them?
Before determining what to bring with you, first you should determine who needs to contribute their information on your FAFSA. People can find more information on who is considered a contributor and other helpful tips on our website: millersville.edu/fa-apply.

Once you know that information, having the following items on hand can help you accurately complete the application and avoid any potential delays.

• All contributors will need a Federal Student Aid Account to log into the application and submit the FAFSA. This should be completed at least three days prior to the event.
  • If you are struggling with this process, we can assist you at the event and schedule another time to complete the FAFSA.
• The Social Security Number or Alien Registration Number (if not a U.S. citizen) of all contributors.
• 2022 Tax returns (if applicable), W-2 forms, and any other financial information for each contributor.
• The name, date of birth, Social Security number, and email addresses of each contributor.

Additional information potential attendees should know?
This event is about more than completing the FAFSA; it's about community. In the Office of Financial Aid, we consider ourselves a family. During these uncertain times, we want everyone to feel welcome and comfortable reaching out for help. We hope to see you, your family, your friends, and your support system. If you don't have one, don't worry-we're here for you. Join us and become part of the amazing Millersville community.