STCU is kicking off the new year with an unprecedented effort to help families complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid – a critical step for anyone who may decide to obtain specialized career training or attend college at any point after high school.
In January and February, the credit union is offering FAFSA assistance after hours at STCU branch locations throughout Eastern Washington and North Idaho. In all, there will be a record 50 free events – including 24 in Spokane and Northeastern Washington, 10 in North Idaho, 4 in Tri-Cities, and 12 in Central Washington. Find a complete list on the STCU website.
Assistance will be provided by trained volunteers who are STCU employees, using secure on-site technology. The events are open to anyone, regardless of whether they’re STCU members, and attendees need not bring computers or other devices. Because weekday evenings are busy times for families, the credit union offers light dinner fare to attendees.
Last year’s glitchy roll-out of a new FAFSA form caused a big drop in completions and delays getting applicant information to colleges and training programs. Washington and Idaho saw 11 percent fewer completions in 2024 compared to 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Education.
Spokane area attendees at two STCU FAFSA events in December found that this year’s form is much improved. Yet, trained assistance can help smooth the process, particularly for those applicants from two-household families or other complicating factors.
Two years ago, STCU began opening the doors for a limited number FAFSA events in cooperation with Spokane-based LaunchNW Foundation, which is working to remove barriers to post-secondary education and training. More events were offered last year, and this year’s list is the longest yet.
“Because of our branch network, STCU is uniquely positioned to help in communities throughout the region,” said Traci McGlathery, VP – Director of Community Relations for STCU. “The STCU team loves the opportunity to provide assistance, and families are grateful for the assistance.”
Launched in 1965 under a different name, the FAFSA traditionally was completed by those headed to college. In more recent years, it has become a requirement for anyone entering a growing number of apprenticeship or vocational programs. It provides applicants of any age with options for obtaining scholarships, entering work-study programs, and other assistance with costs.
Completing the form is not a commitment to accepting aid or taking any particular course of action. But it can ease the financial burden for those making the transition from high school to their next life step.
