Spokane schools emphasize FAFSA for college and trade school funding

SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane Public Schools is urging students and families to apply for FAFSA as soon as possible.

Dawn Hilsendeger, a college and career counselor, explained that the FAFSA form is now simpler and essential for accessing various financial aids. “We encourage all of our seniors to submit FAFSA for a few different reasons,” said Hilsendeger.

The FAFSA is crucial for determining eligibility for need-based aid and federal student loans. Hilsendeger emphasized that even students not planning to attend a four-year college should apply, as the Washington grant can be used for trade and technical programs.

Applying early can ease anxiety about college costs. “If you submit it early, you have information early about what your eligibility is,” said Hilsendeger. This allows familie