Avoiding additional debt, including student loans, may be a growing concern for all of us right now, but it is important not to forget that the free financial aid money you want is still out there. The Federal Government, along with State Governments and institiuions, gives out billions of dollars each year in grant funds. These funds do not have to be paid back, excepting under certain conditions such as if you withdraw before the end of the semester.

The four types of Federal Grants include the Federal PELL Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Academic Competitiveness Grant, and the National SMART Grant. The PELL grant is the most common, and most readily available. PELL awards range from $400 to $4050 per student per academic year depending on the student’s level of financial need and the number of credit hours her or she takes. Like the PELL, the other federal grants are also primarily based on financial need, as determined by your FAFSA application. There are a few other qualifications as well, but the first and most important is to apply.

You can learn more about grants and other types of federal aid at studentaid.ed.gov. And as always, check with the financial aid office at your school about applying for these and all other grants that might be available to you.



Categories: General