Federal Updates

Stafford Loan MPN Update
In October 2002, Shoptalk Online Edition 175 announced the availability of the revised Federal Stafford Loan Master Promissory Note (Stafford Loan MPN). Effective January 1, 2003, FFELP participants can only distribute the revised Stafford Loan MPN to borrowers.

Final TRA School Reporting Rules Issued
On December 19, 2002, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued final rules for school reporting of qualified tuition and related expenses. The rules establish reporting procedures under the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997, which established the Hope and Lifetime Learning Credits. These credits allow students or parents to claim qualified tuition and related expenses as a credit against their tax liability.

TG Updates

2003 TG Conference Information and Registration Now Online
TG is ready to rock! Make your plans to join us for the jam session of the year: the 2003 TG Conference, "FFELP: Live in Concert!" The conference will be held in Austin from April 23-25, 2003, at the Marriott at the Capitol.

Trends and Issues

MYF Chat to Cover Tests, Admissions, Financial Aid
Students and parents who have questions about what it takes to get admitted to and pay for college can get the answers they need during a chat event on Mapping Your Future (MYF) in February. MYF, a public-service website providing college, career, and financial aid information and services, will offer a "Standardized Tests and College Admissions" chat on February 4, 2003.

Quick Links

• 2003 TG Conference Information and Online Registration

This, That, and the Other...

Shoptalk Online and TG's corporate website at www.tgslc.org will soon be getting a new look. Watch for the changes in February, and learn more in next week's Shoptalk Online. Although the designs are changing, one thing will never change: TG will continue to provide you with all of the useful, insightful, and timely information you've come to expect from us.

Take a look at Adventures In Education, TG's Public Awareness website.