Fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form as soon as possible. Make sure you keep your user ID and password in a safe but handy place. Once you have filled out your FAFSA form, you can begin to determine what types of aid you are eligible for.
Get your parents current tax returns. This step is easy for many students, but to others who have stepfamilies or parents who have not filled out their taxes it can keep you from receiving aid.
Apply for local grants and scholarships in your area. Your high school guidance counselor should have a list of all the available opportunities for extra money. There are many scholarships especially for women, minorities, athletes and good students.
Keep your record clean because it can cost you a chance to go to college. Of all the criminal offenses that one can commit, having been caught selling drugs will make you ineligible for financial aid.
Look elsewhere for financial aid if the government cannot help you. There are many private companies with reasonable rates that offer subsidized and unsubsidized loans. Check out a commercial loan if you have to.