Government College Financial Aid Comes in Many Forms - Scholarships, Fellowships & Student Loans

By: Anamika Gupta

Government College Financial Aid Comes in Many Forms - Scholarships, Fellowships & Student Loans

When it comes to finding funding for college the answer may be as close as your back yard. Visit at http://themotley-fool.blogspot.com

Everyone considers federal government sources of aid to make their college dreams come true but overlook what their state has to offer. State financial aid sources exist to help students who are reaching for a higher level of education. Here is some information to point you in this possibly lucrative direction.

Start with your high school guidance counselor. Any information about grants, scholarships, loans, and other programs offered by the state will be funneled through their office. Make an appointment to talk with them and gather as much information as you can on the options available.

Contact your state educational office. Every state has one. If they have a website, visit and see what they can tell you. States are ready to help students, especially if they plan on attending a state school.

Ask the state educational office for a financial aid handbook. Any scholarships, loans, and grants that are provided by the state can be found in the pages of that book. Study it carefully. Apply for all of the programs that even remotely apply to you, your situation, and your skills.

Scholarship monies are available for attending a state school. A state college or university may not be your first choice, but don't count them out. One distinct advantage of a state-supported school is the cost. The average cost per year could be half that of a private college or university in another state.

States set aside money for students pursuing certain fields of study at college. The funds encourage students to stay within state to receive their education. This doesn't mean that you have to attend the same college for all four years. If you truly want to study elsewhere, you can transfer after the first year or two, but understand that these funds more than likely will not follow you to your new school.

Counties issue grants based on their need for graduates to pursue a specific discipline. Teachers and nurses are in high demand. Areas where there is a significant shortage offer students the chance to go to college for little or nothing in return for a certain number of years of service in the needy area.

States provide grant money for minority students. These grants give money to qualified students based on race, religion, and sex. If you fall into one of these categories, apply for the grant and get the money you need for college.

The best thing about grant money is that it does not have to be paid back. It is important to check with the grant foundation on the renewal particulars of the grant. You don't want to miss out on money in subsequent years because of a failure to renew the grant.

Local businesses and civic organizations offer scholarships for students planning on attending college. For some of these scholarships, students are chosen based on their academic record in high school. Other ones require an application to be filled out for consideration.

Banks in your state may offer college loans for parents and/or students. The loans supplement any costs that are not covered from other financial aid sources. Loans should always be a last resort when considering all forms of aid, but they are available if you need them.

Another avenue of inquiry is the financial aid office of a state college. After deciding to attend a state school visit or call their financial aid office to learn about any state grants or scholarships that are available on their campus. The state government or corporations may partner with state-funded schools or private colleges to offer money to students in need.

With all of the state sources that you find, be mindful of application deadlines. Many of the deadlines will be around the same time so staying organized is a must to get all of the information in on time. Late applications will not be considered.

State financial aid sources do exist. Check with state educational offices and your high school guidance counselor for more information.Visit at http://themotley-fool.blogspot.com


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