WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) — Sen. Jack Reed hosted a free financial aid workshop at the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Tuesday evening for students and their families. The seminar provided high schoolers with information about scholarships, grants, loans, Free Applications for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and federal tax benefits to assist with college costs. "Students don't have to wait until they are accepted to college to start the financial aid process," Reed explained. "I want every student to understand their options when it comes to paying for college." "Whether it is institutional-based scholarships, Pell Grants or some type of other financial aid, every student who plans to attend college next year needs to complete the FAFSA," he continued. RELATED: Tuition increases approved for CCRI, RIC The workshop connected students and their families with financial aid experts for personalized assistance in the process of filling out this year's FAFSA, which determines the amount of federal assistance a student is eligible to receive. The FAFSA is required for Rhode Island students interested in applying for the Rhode Island Promise Scholarship or the Rhode Island Hope Scholarship. Reed said common errors made while completing the FAFSA "can potentially cost students tens of thousands of dollars when it comes to receiving financial aid." Throughout the workshop, the experts outlined the loan and grant application process and provided insight into what college-bound students can expect when applying for financial aid. The experts also talked about the process of paying back student loans, as well as the tax benefits available to assist with college expenses. "I will continue working to make college more affordable and the financial aid process easier for students and families," Reed said. "Increasing need-based financial aid for qualified students is a smart investment that helps today's students become the leaders and innovators of tomorrow." Biden highlights efforts to support free community college programs Reed and other lawmakers introduced the Pell Grant Preservation and Expansion Act earlier this year, which would double the grant amount and make it even easier for students to qualify. Right now, the current maximum Pell Grant award is $7,395. This workshop comes after the U.S. Department of Education announced a phased rollout of the newly updated FAFSA for the upcoming 2025-26 school year. The new FAFSA is currently open to students during an expanded beta testing period ahead of its official launch on Dec. 1. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW