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Choosing a degree can be a daunting financial commitment, but various financial aid options are available to ease this burden.
Types of Financial Aid Options
- Grants: A form of financial aid that doesn’t need to be repaid. Common types include:
– Federal Pell Grants
– State Grants
– Institutional Grants - Scholarships: Financial awards based on academic achievement, merit, or specific criteria. Types include:
– Academic Scholarships
– Athletic Scholarships
– Need-Based Scholarships - Loans: Funds that must be repaid with interest. Common student loans include:
– Federal Direct Subsidized Loans
– Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans
– Private Loans - Work-Study Programs: A program that allows students to work part-time to help pay for educational expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
Financial Aid Type | Common Eligibility Requirements |
---|---|
Grants | Based on financial need, often requires FAFSA completion. |
Scholarships | Varies; may consider GPA, extracurricular activities, and essays. |
Loans | Involves credit checks for private loans; FAFSA for federal loans. |
Work-Study | Requires FAFSA; based on financial need and availability. |
Application Process
- Complete the FAFSA to apply for federal and state financial aid.
- Research and apply for scholarships through schools, organizations, and corporations.
- Consider loan options, paying attention to interest rates and repayment terms.
- Explore work-study opportunities once admitted to a school.
Financial Literacy Resources
- Education Corner – Financial Literacy Resources
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau – Financial Literacy Resources
Statistics on Financial Aid
Financial Aid Type | Average Amount Awarded |
---|---|
Grants | $4,500 |
Scholarships | $1,800 |
Loans | $7,000 |
Work-Study | $2,200 |
Useful Tips for Securing Financial Aid
- Start the process early and meet all deadlines.
- Keep documentation organized to facilitate thorough applications.
- Stay informed about different scholarships and their requirements.
- Don’t hesitate to ask financial aid offices for help.
Mind Map of Financial Aid Options
- Financial Aid
- Grants
- Federal Pell Grants
- State Grants
- Scholarships
- Need-Based Scholarships
- Merit-Based Scholarships
- Loans
- Federal Loans
- Private Loans
- Work-Study
- Grants
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