(LINCOLN Neb. February 1, 2003) - February is Financial Aid Month and EducationQuest Foundation wants to remind college-bound Nebraskans that free services are available to help them complete and file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Those who should complete the FAFSA include college-bound high school seniors and their parents, college-bound adults, and current college students.

"We advise applicants to complete the FAFSA before March 1 to receive the best types of financial aid," said EducationQuest President Liz Fieselman. "That's why February is such a crucial month in the financial aid process."

EducationQuest is a private, nonprofit organization that provides free college planning services at its offices in Kearney, Lincoln and Omaha - including FAFSA completion and filing. To make an appointment, call the Kearney office at 800.666.3721, Lincoln at 800.303.3745, or Omaha at 888.357.6300. Those who do not live within visiting distance can call for assistance over the phone.

Before completing the FAFSA, applicants will need:

• Department of Education PIN number for student and one parent (apply at www.pin.ed.gov.)
• 2002 W-2(s) and tax returns for student and parent.
• Current bank statements.
• Student's drivers license number.
• Records of untaxed income.
• Value of business and farm (exclude family farm).
• Value of investments (exclude retirement plans and home equity).
• Alien registration number for eligible non-citizens.

In addition to free college planning services, EducationQuest also funds need-based scholarship programs and community grants. EducationQuest offers these programs and services to fulfill its mission of increasing access to higher education in Nebraska. For more information, visit www.educationquest.org or call 800.666.3721.