What do you have planned for your holiday break? Family time? Catching up on homework? Getting a part-time job? Whatever your plans may be, focus a little on your future plans…college.
If you’re a senior this year, the 2024-2025 FAFSA will be available by December 31, 2023, so now is the best time to start preparing. Create an FSA ID by going to StudentAid.gov and start gathering the information you’ll need once the FAFSA opens – you can find a list of items you’ll need to complete the FAFSA and some helpful tips on completing the form in our Finish the FAFSA in Five Steps publication. You can find the FAFSA at FAFSA.gov.
Scholarships should also be on your mind. Use your holiday break to apply for as many as possible. There are numerous scholarships available and you can apply all year for funding that can be used throughout your college career. Take advantage of this free money!
And if you choose to work on your break, stash a portion of your earnings in your savings account for college. Choose to save 20, 30 or 40% of your take-home pay. Any monetary gifts you receive for the holidays can also be added to your savings. Remember, every dollar you save is one less dollar you’ll have to borrow.
Enjoy your holiday and take some time to plan ahead!