Filling out the FAFSA form is the first step for most students seeking financial support to go to college. But the form can be complicated and intimidating, particularly for students who are new to the country or the first in their family to go to college. To help, the Center for New York City Affairs, home of Insideschools.org, has released a third edition of its popular book: FAFSA: The How-To Guide for High School Students (And the Adults Who Help Them).

The guide is easy to read and answers many common questions from students and families. It is a great teaching tool for guidance counsellors, college access professionals and anyone seeking to help students and families fill out the often confusing and complicated FAFSA form. The guide also contains helpful tips on working with college financial aid offices and comparing aid packages. New this year: updated information for undocumented students.

To download or share, please go to the Center's website at www.understandingFAFSA.org.

To order free print copies of the guide for students, families or colleagues, please click here.

On Feb. 2 the Center, along with the city's Department of Education, is sponsoring a free day-long free conference, "FAFSA, Financial Aid & Funding Your Students' College Education." Click here for more details.