(NAPSI)—Research shows that students tend to earn higher grades, have better attendance, are more motivated and less likely to drop out when their families are involved in their education.

If you’re the parent or relative of a young man about to become 18 years old, there’s one thing you can do that will help him throughout his life-make sure he registers with the Selective Service to remain eligible for student financial aid.

Why is registration so important?

Because it’s the key to a number of doors leading to a better future, and it’s one of the easiest things a man can do to keep control of his life.

But if a man misses the cutoff and doesn’t register before he reaches 26, the doors to receiving the valuable benefits linked to the registration requirement may be closed forever.

Did you know?

• Failure to register is a violation of the law and could carry hefty fines. The good news is that the Department of Justice is not prosecuting at this time, but the law remains on the books and could be punishable up to a felony.
• Registration is also a man’s civic and patriotic duty. When a male registers he shows his national pride and commitment to stand in support of our country and the all-volunteer military.
• Registration helps ensure that any future draft is fair and equitable.
• Finally, registration is required to be eligible for a number of valuable benefits. They are:

− Eligibility for many college loans, grants and scholarships

− Work-Study and Guaranteed Student PLUS Loans

− Federal job training programs

− Millions of jobs, including all federal jobs, Postal Service jobs, many state jobs, and an increasing number of contractor jobs

− In most states you must register when you go to get a driver’s license

− If a male immigrant (documented or undocumented) fails to register, he may be denied citizenship until he is 31 years old.

Fortunately, registration with the Selective Service is supereasy.

• Just go online to www.sss.gov and register.
• See your high school counselor or principal.
• Pick up a form in any post office and mail it in.
• Check the “Register me” box when applying for financial aid on your FAFSA form.

Learn More:

For further information, visit www.sss.gov or, to speak to someone about registration, call (888) 655-1825.

Remember, 45 seconds online can save you 45 years of headaches and heartaches.