Almost one-half of all under-graduates across the nation do not apply for federal financial aid and therefore miss the opportunity for assistance in attending college, according to a recent study by the American Council on Education.

Don’t let this happen to you.

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission says scholarships, grants and other forms of college financial aid typically go to those who closely follow the sequence of steps in the financial aid process. Because most college financial aid money is awarded on a first come, first served basis, meeting deadlines, submitting applications on time and tracking their progress are vital steps in the financial aid process.

CollegeZone, a free, comprehensive resource for college planning and financing information, helps students Understand the process of applying for federal financial aid. Take advantage of this service by visiting collegezone.com, by calling 1-800-899-ISAC (4722) or by visiting a CollegeZone Outreach Center on every community college campus in Illinois.

For student financial aid from the state and federal government, you must apply by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)form. Many colleges and universities also require that you submit the

FAFSA in order to be eligible for any of their financial aid programs (scholarship, awards, etc.).

The FAFSA is available in paper and electronic formats. A Web based version of the FAFSA can be accessed through ISAC’s collegezone.com or at www.fafsa.ed.gov. (Step-by-step instructions are provided).

The fastest and easiest way to complete and submit the FAFSA is on line. Printed forms are available by contacting an ISAC CollegeZone counselor at 1-800-899-4722 or from high schools, college financial aid offices, public libraries or by calling 1-800-4-FED-AID.

Review the information you provide on the FAFSA to ensure it is correct and list all of the colleges you are interested in attending. To secure aid from as many sources as possible, apply as soon as you can after January 1 for the upcoming school year.

Improve your chances of obtaining financial aid by planning ahead, applying early and reading directions carefully.