Financial Aid Fair at TAMIU Set for Tuesday, March 2

Students interested in knowing how to finance a college education are encouraged to attend Texas A&M International University's Annual Financial Aid Fair Tuesday, March 2 at the Student Center Ballroom.

Financial Aid staff members will be on hand to answer questions about financial assistance opportunities during two sections that are free and open to the public. The first one will be held from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and the second one from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

"This is the sixth time we have organized this Fair, the city's largest, which is designed for both current and prospective students," said Laura Elizondo, director of the Office of Financial Aid. "Last year, we offered $18 million in help and students should make plans to attend the Fair to gather information on how they can receive aid and to see how a college education is within their grasp."

Elizondo explained that 78 percent of TAMIU students receive financial aid in the form of scholarships, loans, grants and work-study programs.

"Higher education is the key to securing a satisfactory job as well as success for our city, region and state. At TAMIU, we are committed to assisting our students with information that will make attending University a little easier on their family's pocket," Elizondo said, "Also participating in this Fair will be various financial lenders and they will be ready to answer any questions students may have."

Elizondo said Financial Aid staff members will also help students complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms.

"Students and their families should bring their tax forms including W-2's and 1099's so that we have all the data necessary to input into the FAFSA form," Elizondo said.

All participants will also have an opportunity to register for prizes, including scholarships. Refreshments will also be served.

For additional information, please contact the Financial Aid Office at 326.2225, visit the Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library, room 158 or email to laura@tamiu.edu or visit the University's homepage at www.tamiu.edu.

Office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays and from 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursdays.