Latest local news, weather and high school sports for Tri-State area

QUINCY, ILL. -- If you have a child getting ready for college this fall, you'll want to listen to this.

The Illinois Students Assistance Commission urges college-bound students to move quickly to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA.   That's the application used to determine how much federal and state aid a student can get.

But due to shrinking state revenues and increasing numbers of adults heading back to college, that money is getting harder to come by.

Like many college students, John Wood Community College Freshman Chris Duesdieker depends on student aid to pursue his career goals in sports medicine.

Duesdieker said, "I would not be able to be here at this campus right now if I didn't have the financial aid to get the career I want and the education I want."

With high unemployment, many displaced workers are joining the ranks of students in the classroom. That means more students requesting federal and state aid. But there's not enough to go around. The current Illinois budget crisis means less money in student aid dollars will be available for students like Chris.

State officials, as well as colleges and universities, are urging students and parents to file for student aid as soon as possible.

Why is it important for students to do this sooner rather than later?

Melanie Lechtenberg, JWCC Director of Financial Aid said, "When you fill out the FAFSA, that information is considered by the federal and state level, and with limited pools of funds, especially at the state level, it's important you file as soon as possible for the FAFSA so your name is in there and see if you qualify before those funds are expended."

Here's something you may not know. Student aid is given out first come, first served, if you meet the qualifications. And the time folks have to file is running shorter every year. Back in 2008, student aid dollars ran out in July. Last year, money dried up in May.

John Wood Community College's Director of Financial, Aid Melanie Lechtenberg, says this year, money could be gone in a matter of weeks.

Duesdieker said, "As soon as I heard the state was getting low on money, I decided to do it now and get it over with because I don't want to run the risk of not having money, it's a safety net."

That's why students like Duesdieker are not wasting any time. He and many other John Wood students are taking advantage of financial aid labs like this...filling out their FAFSA with the help of financial aid professionals. They say filing a FAFSA is important. Even if state funds are gone, federal aid still may be available, and every little bit helps.

If you are the parent of a high school junior...keep this in mind. You may begin to fill out your FAFSA in January of next year, using estimated figures without having your taxes done. That way your name is at the front of the line for aid. But you must go back and update your FAFSA after your taxes are filed.