The Pedrozzi Foundation, in conjunction with Congressman Eric Swalwell, is hosting a free Cash for College workshop to provide hands-on-help to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Wednesday, Feb. 17, 2016
6:00 – 8:00 pm
Livermore High School
Computer Lab - Rooms 303 & 305
600 Maple Street, Livermore
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This workshop is open to all seniors from any Tri-Valley high school planning to attend community college, universities and vocational training programs next fall.
“Completing the FAFSA is the first step toward receiving financial aid from the federal and state governments, colleges and many scholarship providers, so we recommend that all students submit it annually,” says Carolyn Siegfried, Executive Director of the Pedrozzi Foundation. “Many students and families finish their FAFSA themselves, but if you need assistance, register today for this important workshop.”
Low to middle income families may qualify for federal and state grants, and students from families of all income levels need to complete the FAFSA to access federal student loans and work study funds. Many colleges require the FAFSA for merit based scholarships from students of all financial backgrounds. “It is important that students and families do not self-select out of aid by not submitting the FAFSA,” adds Siegfried.
Cal Grants, funded by the State of California, cover the cost of tuition at California public universities. “For example, a student with at least a 3.0 GPA, from a family of four, with a household income up to $90,500 and assets less than $70,000, may be eligible for a Cal Grant to cover tuition at a California State University or University of California campus. Students from households with incomes up to $150,000 per year may be eligible for a Middle Class Scholarship from the state,” explains Siegfried. California students without a social security number, and therefore are not eligible for federal aid, need to complete the California Dream Act application instead of the FAFSA. Help will be available to complete both applications at the workshop, and both have the same March 2 deadline in California.
“Congressman Swalwell believes that the Federal and State governments play a critical role in providing affordable access to quality education to prepare students for future careers in our global economy,” explains Siegfried. “We are grateful to be working in coordination with his office to provide this valuable help.”
To be prepared for the workshop, students and at least one parent should create a FSA ID (Federal Student Aid ID) at FSAID.ed.gov prior to attending.
The following information should be known or brought to the workshop:
- FSA ID for student and at least one parent
- Social Security (SS) Number for parents and student and how names are listed on SS Card
- Most recent federal income tax returns, W-2s, and other records of income (including untaxed income)
- Bank statements for checking, savings and other asset accounts (including college savings plans)
- Driver’s license, if applicable.
You will not need to reveal the above information to anyone, but it is needed to complete the application.
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The Pedrozzi Scholarship Foundation also awards scholarships for community college, undergraduate and graduate studies and vocational training for graduates of the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District, and the application deadline is March 1, 2016.
The Foundation’s website, PedrozziFoundation.org, contains a wealth of information on paying for college and is the launching point for the Pedrozzi Scholarship applications.
For more information contact the Pedrozzi Scholarship Foundation at 925-456-3700 or info@PedrozziFoundation.org.
ABOUT THE PEDROZZI SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION
The Pedrozzi Foundation provides college and vocational scholarships and resources to Livermore students. We believe that all students deserve the chance to pursue their educational and career goals and that the lack of finances or information should not be a barrier. Every day we create an impact by helping our students achieve their dreams. The Foundation was established by Mario Pedrozzi, a Livermore businessman, who left his estate as a gift to the community. Other community members are joining Mr. Pedrozzi in investing in Livermore students by generously donating to this unique and high-impact community organization. Learn more at PedrozziFoundation.org
ABOUT CONGRESSMAN ERIC SWALWELL
Congressman Eric Swalwell proudly represents California’s Fifteenth Congressional District, which includes a large portion of the East Bay. In January 2015, he was sworn in for his second term in the U.S. House of Representatives, continuing his work to bring new energy, ideas, and a problem-solving spirit to Congress and advance policies that will support equality, opportunity, and security. Learn more at Swalwell.House.gov.
