Financial Aid
Federal Aid
Grants, loans and work-study are the most common forms of federal aid. Some of these awards don’t need to be paid back, while others will require working. The hardest part for many students is applying. Read on for more information about how to apply and what to expect.
Scholarships
Also known as “gift aid”, scholarships never have to be repaid. They are often merit-based and can greatly range in amounts. Scholarships can come from many sources, like the federal government, your college or university or even private or nonprofit organizations.
Students Loan
When receiving offers for financial aid, loans are quite common. This money is borrowed and must be paid back, often with interest. Taking out a loan can be scary, so you need to be aware of where the loan is coming from and the terms and conditions of the loan.
Other ways to pay
Funding for school can sometimes come from non-traditional sources. Some companies offer tuition reimbursement, while some community colleges are offering free tuition if certain criteria are met. Before accepting the first financial aid offer, look around for other opportunities, sometimes they can be found in odd places.
Tuition price is often the biggest factor that determines where and when someone will go to school. The majority of students don't pay for the full cost of school out of pocket — most receive some sort of financial aid. Grants, loans and scholarships are just a few ways you may get help in paying for school. Understanding the different types and what each offer means can get confusing. Some awards are need-based, while others are merit-based. Every year, millions of dollars go un-awarded because students don’t take the first step of applying. Applying for aid can be daunting, but well worth the time if you are able to save money on school.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is the most important document in the world of college financial aid. Find out what it is, how it works, what to watch for when filling it out and tips for maintaining your eligibility throughout your college career.
It's no secret that a college education can be expensive, but knowing how to win a scholarship can make a big difference in your tuition bill. Learn how to apply for college scholarships, check out a few different types of scholarships and get some general tips for how to win a scholarship in our comprehensive guide.
Understanding how government and private student loans work will help you make financial decisions you can live with after you leave school.
January 14, 2020 | Justin BoylePaying for college can be a challenge, but knowing about your options and having an idea of what to expect can help you manage your finances and forge a path to graduation. Read on to learn about the different factors that contribute to the cost of an education and find out how some students are making college more affordable.
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