Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid is an important part of the financial college process for students across the country, as many students depend on financial aid to pay for their tuition.

Kent State is aware of this, and they’re also aware of how complicated the process of filling out the form can be for students, as it might be their first experience with financial documents and terms.

This awareness is why Kent State offers workshops through One Stop for Student Services for students and families to work with One Stop employees to fill out their FAFSA.

“I think they are very productive because I think students can leave with a peace of mind knowing that they’ve submitted the FAFSA and they can feel confident knowing they’ve done it in a way that minimizes room for errors,” said Iris Mirelez, the director of One Stop for Student Services.

Students and any family members who want to attend with them are welcome with no registration necessary. All of the remaining workshops will take place in Classroom 333 in the library. The next workshop is Nov. 7 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Mirelez also said that One Stop recommends students get their FAFSA done before Dec. 1 to ensure they get their maximum amount of financial aid, as some of it is given out on a first come, first serve basis.

Students are also given a “next steps” instructional sheet to remind them of dates to start looking for information and updates about their financial aid, or any emails from One Stop or FAFSA saying they need additional information.

The Living in the Arts Learning Community and the College of the Arts offer similar workshops and assistance in the computer lab in Verder Hall on Fridays in November and December, along with several other dates.

Aaron McDade is the jobs and money reporter. Contact him at [email protected].