💰 Financial Aid Guide

Understanding how to pay for college doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here is a step-by-step guide.

1. File the FAFSA

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is your gateway to federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. File it as early as possible after October 1st each year at studentaid.gov. Many states and colleges also use FAFSA data to award their own aid.

2. Understand Grant vs. Loan vs. Scholarship

• Grants — Free money you don't repay (Pell Grant, SEOG)
• Scholarships — Merit-based or need-based awards from schools, private orgs, or community groups
• Loans — Money you borrow and must pay back with interest. Federal loans are generally better than private loans.

3. Look for Local Scholarships

Your high school counselor, local community organizations, religious groups, and employers often sponsor scholarships that get far fewer applicants than national ones. Start with your school's scholarship bulletin board.

4. Understand Work-Study

Federal work-study provides part-time jobs for students with financial need, letting them earn money to help pay education expenses. Jobs are often on campus and related to your field of study.

5. Compare Financial Aid Offers

When you receive aid offers from multiple colleges, compare the net price (total cost minus grants and scholarships, not loans). A school that looks expensive may actually be cheaper after accounting for aid.

6. Watch Out for Scams

Never pay anyone to help you file the FAFSA or find scholarships. Both are free services. If a scholarship company guarantees you money or asks for your credit card upfront, it is a scam.