The Indiana Commission for Higher Education launched its 2019 Cash for College campaign Friday to encourage Indiana students to take steps that will help them pay for education and training after high school—including filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by the state’s April 15 deadline.
“Indiana has one of the most generous state financial aid systems in the country, ranking fourth in the nation and first in the midwest for need-based financial aid,” said Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education Teresa Lubbers. “Although we distribute more than $300 million in state aid each year, too many Hoosiers miss out by failing to research their options and file the FAFSA. With Cash for College, we hope to send a clear message to students and families that education beyond high school is within the reach of all Hoosiers if they prepare.”
The Indiana Commission for Higher Education continues to partner with Indiana school corporations to drive up the number of high school seniors filing a FAFSA on time. Whether they are seeking federal or state financial aid or pursuing academic scholarships—completing a FAFSA is a critical step in securing financial support for college.
Throughout the next few months, the state is also encouraging schools and communities to host regional events with financial aid experts to help students learn about the costs of college, open a CollegeChoice 529 Direct Savings Plan, apply for Indiana’s 21st Century Scholars program, search for scholarships and file the FAFSA.
This morning, the Commission hosted a Cash for College launch event at Purdue Polytechnic High School in Indianapolis. Commissioner Lubbers spoke to the students about keeping college affordable for Hoosier families and shared some best practices for preparing for education beyond high school. Students participated in a virtual “paying for college” simulation and a raffle to win a $100 CollegeChoice 529 Direct Savings Plan.
