Genesee ISD hosts free FAFSA workshop to help students secure financial aid and scholarships

FLINT, Michigan — The process of applying for college can be stressful, especially after seeing the estimated cost of tuition, books, and supplies fees. This alone has stopped many simply from applying for college or technical trade programs, but it doesn’t have to.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is available to potential college, career school and graduate school students and their families each year. For the 2025-2026 year, the FAFSA is due on June 30. Each college or trade school might have their own deadline, however. 

For local residents and community members, the Genesee ISD and Genesee County Career and College Access Network (GCCCAN) is hosting a free, hands-on FAFSA workshop on Tuesday, March 25 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Genesee ISD Erwin Davis Educational Center (2413 W. Maple Ave., Entrance #3). Space is limited, and interested high school students and their parents can register online. 

Corrine Walworth is the GCCCAN Coordinator at GISD and works closely with schools and community organizations to help increase the number of students who can earn a postsecondary credential — whether it’s a college degree, or certification. 

“I focus on communicating and sharing resources to ensure students have access to the information they need,” she says. “Additionally, I provide various postsecondary opportunities, including college pathways and skilled trades, to help students explore all options for their future success.”

Walworth’s favorite part about her role is increasing awareness about the many opportunities available to students in their postsecondary journeys. She says completing the FAFSA is key to accessing these opportunities. 

“For instance, the Michigan Achievement Scholarship can provide up to $27,500 for students pursuing a Bachelor’s degree — that’s $5,500 per year for up to five years. To qualify, students must complete the FAFSA, and seven out of 10 high school graduates are eligible. Additionally, I’m excited to share that all high school seniors are eligible for the Community College Guarantee, which allows them to earn a skills certificate or associate degree tuition-free at a community college, simply by completing the FAFSA.”

The free local workshop aims to provide assistance, tips, and support to those looking to apply and complete their FAFSA application, which helps remove financial barriers preventing them from seeking out postsecondary education. 

In addition to the upcoming workshop, the GISD provides year-round for students to help plan their futures. Beyond Graduation is a website tailored for Genesee County students, assisting with career and college planning, skilled trades, apprenticeship programs, and financial support. 

To complete the FAFSA, students and their parents must create a StudentAid.gov account, username, and password ID. Typically, the entire application process takes about half an hour for most to complete. 

“Encouraging FAFSA completion helps eliminate financial obstacles to career training and attending college,” Walworth says. “We want every student to have the opportunity to pursue their goals.”