OWINGS MILLS, MD – Maryland Public Television’s broadcast of You Can Afford College will air on Monday, December 10, 2012, at 8 pm.

You Can Afford College, a MPT production for more than 30 years, delivers information tailored to today's parents and students who need comprehensive, up-to-date information on how Marylanders can apply for financial aid for college

The annual live broadcast is co-hosted by Mario Armstrong and Yolanda Vasquez for the third consecutive year.  Armstrong, who earned an Emmy® award for his role as host, will be joined by Vasquez and a staff of more than a dozen financial aid advisors from area colleges to answer calls from viewers.    

The program explores the maze of questions surrounding financial aid and paying for college.  Financial aid counselors will explain how to navigate the labyrinth of government aid and paperwork, from public and private grants and scholarships to tax forms and loan applications. Viewers can find out how to safely navigate the Internet in search of funds for college and will meet students from college campuses across Maryland who have found simple and creative ways to pay for school.

Viewers can obtain free personalized advice directly from a financial aid professional during the live show via:

• Phone - (800) 222-1292
• Twitter - #MPTycac
• Email – outreach@mpt.org

The 60-minute program will include advice about organizing income tax records, completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), sources of financial assistance, types of aid available, important application deadlines, and websites offering the latest tips on finding funds.  Viewers will hear from financial aid experts who will offer information on the types of aid available and advice on finding and securing grants, scholarships and loans.

You Can Afford College is produced by MPT in cooperation with the Maryland Higher Education Commission.

About MPT

Launched in 1969 and headquartered in Owings Mills, MD, Maryland Public Television is a nonprofit, state-licensed public television network and member of the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS).  MPT’s six transmitters cover Maryland plus portions of contiguous states and the District of Columbia.  Frequent winner of regional Emmy® awards, MPT creates local, regional, and national television shows.  Beyond broadcast, MPT’s commitment to professional educators, parents, caregivers, and learners of all ages is manifest in its year-round instructional events and super-website Thinkport which garners in excess of 1.4 million visits annually.