TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)– Dozens of families made their way to Ivy Tech Community College for “College Goal Sunday,” an event that helps Hoosiers go through the financial aid process.

It marked the 34th year of the program, that takes place on college campuses statewide.  It marked the 34th year of the program, which takes place on college campuses statewide. lies who have never completed a Free Application for Federal Student Aid form, better known as FAFSA.

“We just want to get kids off to a good start, for their college career,” she said.  “A lot of schools will award funds on a first come, first serve basis, so the sooner they get that FAFSA completed, the better opportunity they could have for some free funds.”

Representatives from Indiana State University, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, St. Mary’s of the Woods College and Ivy Tech were all on hand.  Representatives from Indiana State University, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, St. Mary’s of the Woods College, and Ivy Tech were all on hand. 

“It’s wonderful, and when we have a great turnout, we love it,” she said. “We’ve had a lot come in already today, and we like giving our time and being able to help people.”

Wonderlin said it can take about 30-45 minutes to complete the application.  The process went a lot easier than expected for Luke Cornelius, a current high school senior who had never done it before.

“It was a little easier than I expected,” he said. “I think it’s just an easy way to get something important done, it’s a good program they got, so do it if you can.”

Wonderlin said the deadline for applications in Indiana is April 15th, but schools have varying priority deadlines that may be important for students to meet to receive greater financial aid.

She said anyone who missed Sunday’s event can contact a university’s financial aid office for assistance in completing their application.