Employees in the financial aid office at Spoon River College will present an informational meeting at Cuba High School on November 13, from 6 – 7:30 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.

Nikki Rittenhouse, director of Financial Aid at Spoon River College, said that the many updates to the FAFSA application this past year have resulted in more questions than usual. “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 November 13 meeting, please call 309-649-7030.