Fill Out the FAFSA. While you're still in high school, fill out the FAFSA or Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This application places your name on the list to receive one or several types of assistance from the government, including free grants. You can find an application at your high school guidance counselor's office. You can learn about the rules of the FAFSA and eligibility at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/. You can even fill out an application here as well.
Find a Unique Angle. While there are grants available for every individual, you may be more likely to obtain a grant if you fall within a certain type of individual. For instance, there are grants available to minorities, Latin American individuals, American Indians, women and more. By applying for this type of grant, you may have a better chance of receiving one. In order to apply, you may need to provide certain documentation proving that you fall within one of these categories. To learn more, visit http://oedb.org/grant/minority.
Search for the Most Fitting Grants. The government also gives grants to particular individuals living in particular areas. You may find a grant that is specifically for individuals in your own state or region. There may also be grants provided specifically for your situation - such as the ones given to low-income families, individuals with exceptional math and science abilities or individuals with all around exceptional academic excellence. At www.Grants.gov you can search for specific grants and view the details of each one to determine whether you would be eligible. If so, you can obtain the application for those grants through this site as well.
Apply for More Than One Grant. There is no rule which states that you must apply for only one grant. In fact, applying for more than one grant will increase the chances that you receive one. Obtain the applications for all grants that you would be eligible for and apply. Since many grants are very competitive, it can be difficult to be awarded the grant on your first try. Apply for several and make sure all of your information is correct. Find the deadlines for each and every grant application you fill out so you can have them back in plenty of time.
By using the information above, you can obtain a government grant for college so that you can build a promising foundation for your future.