INDIANA– In an effort to ensure no Hoosier student leaves money on the table, financial aid professionals will convene at 34 locations across the state for College Goal Sunday. On February 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. (local time), experts will provide free, one-on-one assistance to students and families navigating the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Now in its 37th year, this event is a critical resource for those seeking to unlock federal and state funding for college. According to the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, Hoosier students missed out on over $76 million in federal aid last year simply by not filing the form.
While the federal deadline for the FAFSA is later in the year, Indiana residents must file by April 15, 2026, to guarantee eligibility for state-based aid. This includes programs like the 21st Century Scholarship and the Frank O’Bannon Grant.
“The FAFSA is the key to accessing more than $400 million in state financial aid,” officials stated. “Filing on time is the single most important step in making higher education affordable.”
To make the most of the session, attendees are encouraged to arrive with the necessary documentation for a smooth filing process. Students and parents should bring:
- FSA ID: It is highly recommended to create your Federal Student Aid (FSA) ID at studentaid.gov at least 1–3 days before the event.
- Tax Documents: Completed 2024 IRS 1040 tax returns and W-2 forms.
- Income Records: Records of untaxed income, such as child support received or interest income.
- Asset Information: Current bank statements and records of investments or businesses.
- Personal Info: Social Security numbers and dates of birth for both students and parents.
With 34 sites operating simultaneously, most residents are within a short drive of a help center. Participating locations include various Ivy Tech Community College campuses (such as Bloomington, Evansville, and Fort Wayne), IU Northwest in Gary, and Arsenal Technical High School in Indianapolis.
In addition to receiving expert help, students who attend and submit a completed evaluation form at any location will be entered for a chance to win one of five $1,000 educational prizes.
For a full list of sites and further details, residents should visit CollegeGoalSunday.org.
