Discuss grant options that are available through your university with a financial aid representative from the school. You can set up a meeting with him through the school's financial aid office.
Visit the College Grant Database's website (collegegrant.net). This website allows you to search grant options by your field of study and it also features grants specifically for women and minority groups as well.
Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This form is available through your University's financial aid office. The federal government will evaluate this form once submitted and decide whether you are eligible for a grant such as the Pell Grant which can provide up to $5,350 per academic year.
Meet with the head of the department into which you are entering. You can set up a meeting by either calling his secretary or sending an email directly e-mailing to her. Discuss grant opportunities with him and follow up on any leads that he gives you.
Follow up on all your applications.