For many students who plan to attend college, one of the first things that comes to mind is how they are going to pay the tuition. A stress that is heavy on many students’ shoulders is the worry and confusion of a lengthy process that some have never heard of. In order to settle this confusion, a Free Application of Federal Student Aid meeting will be held tonight at 6:30.

The purpose of FAFSA night is to explain and help students through the process of applying. Up until this year FAFSA accepted applications beginning the first of January, but this year it started Oct. 1.

“It helps especially [for] first time applicants to have support into the financial aid program because it’s such an overwhelming process,” counselor Bonnie Alagood said. “To help students and parents with financial aid is the objective for that night.”

FAFSA night will not only include information about financial aid, but scholarships will be a topic of discussion as well. Students and parents will receive insight as to how scholarships work and what types of scholarships can benefit students.

“Scholarships are very important to start to apply for, but you must have your financial aid done first before you can apply for loans, scholarships or grants,” Alagood said.

Following the financial aid application, students are recommended to start applying for schools they would like to attend. Applying at the earliest date possible is recommended as it increases scholarship and loan opportunities.

“Admissions for college need to be happening,” Alagood said. “Students should start applying now if they are seniors.”