Student Financial Aid

In the simplest terms, financial aid is any form of funding provided by the federal or state government, schools and even some private organizations that can help you pay college expenses. Here are some of the most commonly accessed:

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

The FAFSA is a form that helps the federal government determine what kind of financial aid you’re qualified for. It also requires information from your parents or guardian, so be sure they are available to fill out the form with you and have their tax details and requisite documents ready as you apply.

View the FAFSA Form

College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile

The CSS Profile is another online financial-aid application that’s popular with private colleges and scholarship programs. Like FAFSA, it collects your financial information. Unlike FAFSA, it costs at least $25 to fill out — although fee waivers can be available for low-income students.

State Financial Aid Programs

Almost every U.S. state has scholarships, grants and student aid programs available for residents. As you consider how to pay for college, these programs can be an invaluable resource.

There are a number of steps involved in getting your federal student aid — right from filling out the application to filing a renewal every year. Check them out.

This is a form of financial aid that doesn't need to be repaid, unless you leave school early or don't complete a service obligation.

• Pell Grant This federal grant helps make college dreams real. Pell Grants are a federal subsidy awarded to undergraduates with exceptional financial need. The award amount is based on certain eligibility factors, including family contribution. For the 2024-25 year, the maximum amount awarded is $7,395.
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) A Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) is a grant for undergraduate students with exceptional financial need, between $100 and $4,000 every year.
• TEACH Grant A Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education (TEACH) Grant is different from other federal grants. To satisfy the terms of the grant, you’ll have to complete a teaching service obligation. If you don't, the grant becomes a loan.
• Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants provide money to the dependents of those service members who died during military service in Iraq and Afghanistan after the events of September 11, 2001.

From full rides to niche awards, there are numerous opportunities to explore for financial support. Whether you’re an academic ace, a talented artist or passionate about the Services, there is a scholarship out there to help take the stress away from tuition debts. Explore some opportunities below.

• Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) is a leadership training and development program sponsored by the branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and offers Department of Defense (DoD)-funded scholarships to college students in exchange for military service upon graduation. You'll receive leadership training, tuition assistance and career opportunities — all while pursuing your degree. Learn More About ROTC
• Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) The U.S. Department of Defense funds the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP). It’s one of the most comprehensive scholarships for medical students — covering tuition, monthly stipends, a signing bonus and other related expenses — for those who commit to serve as commissioned officers in the Military. Learn More About HPSP
• Institutional Scholarships Many schools offer their own scholarships in addition to those provided by the government. These scholarships can be awarded based on academic merit, athletic performance, leadership, community service, specific talents or even need. Research your school’s offerings before you apply.
• Scholarship Search Not sure you see a scholarship that suits your needs here? Check out Scholarship Search — a portal created by the U.S. Department of Labor to consolidate over 9,500 scholarships, fellowships, grants and more. Check Out the Scholarship Finder

Student Loans

These can be used to cover costs of tuition as well as related costs and will go into a repayment plan as soon as the loan is fully disbursed (there can be a short grace period after graduation). Loans can be from the federal government or private institutions. An Overview of the Direct PLUS Loan

Learn More About Student Loan Repayment Program

Student Loan Interest Deduction

Families can also take advantage of tax credits and deductions, such as the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC) and Lifetime Learning Credit (LLC), which can offset the overall cost of higher education.

Employer-Based Tuition Assistance

Many employers offer tuition help for both full-time and part-time employees through scholarships, tuition reimbursement or direct assistance. The Military also has a Tuition Assistance program for Active Duty, Reserve and Guard service members who wish to further their education. Military Support for Education

Work-Study Programs

The federal work-study program provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with demonstrated financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. The program encourages community service work and work related to the student’s course of study. Federal Work-Study Program Quick Facts