Most schools will offer scholarships to outstanding students or students they feel are deserving of their award. Scholarships are awarded for academics, sports, music or through a specific program. Visit the scholarship or financial aid department of your school to see what scholarships you might qualify for. Additionally, many companies or agencies offer scholarships. If you or your parents have been with an organization or the military for a long period of time, check to see if they give out a scholarship.
Every year students can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The Department of Education gives out billions of dollars each year to families that qualify for additional help. Financial aid is need based, so the amount of funding will be determined by your school after they look at things like your income and household size. Most schools want you to complete your FAFSA before March for the following school year.
Students that qualify for federal work study can get jobs on campus that will help pay for school. Visit the employment office or student services center at your campus for more information on what jobs are available at your school. If there are no openings on campus, the school may try to help you find a job at a local establishment. It might also be a good idea to ask within your department about any openings with the department or with their partners.
Student loans often cover what scholarships, grants and working cannot. Student loans, when compared to other types of loans, are pretty reasonable resources for the college student. Rates are lower and students do not have to start paying back loans until six months after they finish school. There are also ways to work away your debt once you are done with classes. Working in the public sector as well as for volunteer organizations like the Peace Corps can earn you partial forgiveness on the debt that you owe. Teachers also can receive breaks on their loans if they choose to work in inner cities or tough communities.