Three Billion Reasons to Apply for Financial Aid at TAMIU

If you think you can't afford a college education, there may be more than three billion reasons why you're wrong. That's because $3 billion in financial aid is awarded annually to Texas higher education students, explained Laura Elizondo, director of Texas A&M International University's Office of Financial Aid.

"In order to get this money, you have to apply by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, available at our office. In addition, parents and students can call the Texas Financial Aid Information Center toll free at 1-888-311-8881, and find out how to apply for aid," said Elizondo.

She said February is Financial Aid Awareness Month, making this the perfect time to work on getting money for college.

"In fiscal year 2004, TAMIU students received more than $17 million in financial aid. Sixty-eight percent of our students during fiscal year 2004 received aid, so everyone should be thinking about applying. While the due date for the FAFSA isn't until June 30, the sooner the application is received, the more likely those in need will be to get free money to pay for college," said Elizondo.

For more information about financial aid, please contact the Office of Financial Aid at 326.2225, visit offices in the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library, room 158 or e-mail financialaid@tamiu.edu. Financial Aid office hours are Monday and Tuesday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.