Employees in the financial aid office at Spoon River College will present an informational meeting at Canton High School on October 7, at 6 p.m., regarding the 2025-2026 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The FAFSA is the official form that students or their families must complete to apply for federal financial assistance for college. This form must also be filled out before students can apply for additional college scholarships. The application for the 2025-2026 academic year will be available starting December 1, 2024.

“There have been many updates to the FAFSA application in the past year, resulting in more than the usual amount of questions about the process,” said Nikki Rittenhouse, director of Financial Aid at Spoon River College. “Although the filing period doesn’t begin until December 1, 2024, having the correct information beforehand will make the process easier. I can’t stress enough how important it is to have it completed accurately and on time, so we are happy to answer questions and help students and parents be prepared.”

Information about other financial assistance programs such as funding for veterans, scholarships, student loans, and payment plans will also be presented, and even those not planning on attending Spoon River College are welcome to attend. These workshops are for students, their parents, and any adult learners who are interested in learning more about options for paying for college.

FAFSA completion workshops at all district high schools will be announced at a later date.

For more information about FAFSA or the October 7 meeting, please call 309-649-7030.