The best student grants available for most students are federally funded Pell grants. The Pell grant is an income-based grant. That means the lower your income, the more funding you might be eligible for. Pell grants are only available to undergraduate students, and there is a maximum amount of the grant each year. To apply for the federal grants, go to www.fafsa.gov, a free federal Web site to process your financial aid application.
In many states, there are state-government funded student grant programs. In Illinois, the MAP grant program allows low-income students to receive assistance for up to eight semester. There is a limited amount of money available each year for these grants, so applying early is the key. To apply for state-funded grants in Illinois, you need to complete your federal FAFSA as referred to above and then apply for financial aid through your college.
Most colleges and universities offer privately funded student grants and scholarships. Some of these are need-based like Pell and state student grants, and others are targeted to specific populations, like mothers returning to college. When you are ready to begin your college education, contact the financial aid office at the university and ask them if they have have institution-based scholarships and grants that you can apply for. Often, the application is part of your financial aid application at the school. Other times, you may need to fill out supplemental forms.
If you are considering going back to school, look around for privately funded student grants. Many employers offer grants that cover the cost of classes for employees or for employees' children. High school students intending to go to college can check with guidance counselors for information about privately funded grants that previous students have received.
One of the most important things to be aware of when looking for student grants is that the information is available for free. Paying someone to do the research for you and match you with student grants is no guarantee that you will find more money for school. Always start with the free sources of free money first.