(NAPSA)—Young menin the United States often find turning 18 can bring a numberof opportunities. It also brings an important obligation—registering with Selective Service. Registration is mandated by the federal government and is required in order to beeligible for college loans, federal jobs and more. To help make the process more understandable, here are some key questions and answers. Q. Who must register with the Selective Service and All young men, including immigrants, are required to register with Selective Service within 30 days of their 18th birthday. Q.Can failing to register when mustthey register? A. All young men, including bring penalties? A. Yes. Aman whofails to regis- status, are required to register victed, face a fine of up to $250,000 immigrants, regardless of their ter may, if prosecuted and con- and/or a prison term of up to five day. Immigrants who arrive after years. their 18th birthday must register Q.Is registration difficult within 30 days of their arrival if or complicated? younger than 26. A. Overthe past few years, regQ.In addition to being in istration has become increasingly compliance with the law, are convenient. Many find the easiest and there benefits to registering? within 30 days of their 18th birth- A.Proofof registration is re- quired when applying for federal college loans and grants, includ- ing Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Oppor- tunity Grants (FSEOG), Direct Stafford Loans/PLUS Loans, National Direct Student Loans, fastest wayto registeris to register online at www.sss.gov. However, a valid Social Security Numberis required for online registration. Those who do not have a Social Security Number must register at a US.postoffice. Selective Service “mail-back” and College Work-Study. registration forms are available at for federal jobs, and the U.S. Citi- overseas may register at any U.S. Registration is also required zenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) makes registration with any U.S. post office. Those living Embassy or consularoffice. It is also possible to register Selective Service a condition for US. citizenship if the man first whenapplying for Federal Student birthday. It is also necessary for jobs of the form. In addition, some high schools have a staff member or arrived in the U.S. before his 26th with many state and municipal governments as well as govern- ment contractors. Some states even require it when applying for a driver's license. Financial Aid (FAFSA form). Sim- ply check “Register Me” on Box #22 teacher appointed as a Selective Service Registrar who can assist with the registration process. To learn more, visit www.sss. gov.
