College-bound Holland-area students and their families completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA can receive help with the form during “College Goal Sunday” on Sunday, Feb. 12, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Davenport University, 643 Waverly Rd.

Hosted by Davenport in cooperation with Hope College, the session is one of more than two dozen “College Goal Sunday” events taking place across the state.  The session is free.

The “College Goal Sunday” program is intended for any student who will be attending a college or university in the fall of 2012 and is seeking need-based financial aid.  The FAFSA is required of any student seeking need-based financial aid including grants, loans and many scholarships.

Students and families are encouraged to visit the host site nearest them regardless of the college or university that they plan to attend, and can stop in throughout the duration of the event.  They will have the opportunity to complete the form with assistance from financial aid experts who will be available to guide them through each step of completing and filing the FAFSA. Students under 23 years of age are encouraged to attend with a parent or guardian. Parents and students should bring their completed 2011 Federal tax return (1040) if possible, or their W-2 and 1099 forms.

 “College Goal Sunday” is a collaborative effort of the Michigan Department of Education, the Michigan Student Financial Aid Association, and EduGuide. The program was created to increase the number of students who continue education beyond high school and earn post-secondary degrees.  Last year, more than 1,600 students received assistance at “College Goal Sunday” events.

Dozens of sites across Michigan will be hosting “College Goal Sunday” on February 12, with an additional session in Dearborn on Sunday, Feb. 19. A variety of prizes will be awarded during “College Goal Sunday” events, including a $1,000 scholarship, two $500 scholarships and three $250 scholarships.  A complete list of locations and additional information is available at www.EduCash.org.