There Are Many Student Aid Programs Available

Check out this list for more information and sources

Student aid programs are set up to help defray the cost of education. When you are applying for financial aid, you'll find there is a wide variety of student aid available ranging from federal and state aid, to programs privately funded by colleges and private scholarship sources. Financial aid is also available in the form of loans, grants, and work-study programs offered to help a student meet the financial obligations of higher education.

Student aid programs are set up to help defray the cost of education. When you are applying for financial aid, you'll find there is a wide variety of student aid available ranging from federal and state aid, to programs privately funded by colleges and private scholarship sources. Financial aid is also available in the form of loans, grants, and work-study programs offered to help a student meet the financial obligations of higher education.

Below is a short overview of various financial aid sources. Go over the list carefully and check the links you feel would apply to your situation. Keep an open mind and don't be too quick to overlook various sources. By checking each source, you may find yourself open to following a path you may not have previously considered.

Types of Student Aid Programs

Follow the Trail

As you can see, there are many avenues to explore as you follow the financial aid breadcrumb trail. Hopefully, one link will lead to another and yet another, until finally you find the perfect match and receive an acceptance letter stating you have yet another amount to add to your financial aid packet. The point is to not give up too soon. Continue to research and apply though out all your college years.

• Federal Student Aid
  
• Federal student aid programs include:
  
  
  • Federal Pell Grant
  • Federal Work Study Program
  • Perkins Loans
  • Federal Stafford Loans
  • Federal Supplemental Educational OpportunityGrants

The majority of these programs are need-based. Even if you think you are not eligible for these programs, it is always worth applying as the need-based formulas are constantly changing. Look here for more information on Applying for Federal Student Aid.
• State Student Aid Programs
  
• Many states provide state grant programs. For tips and hints on finding state scholarships and grant programs, check out State Financial Aid Programs

• College Sponsored Aid Programs
  
• Along with need-based scholarship programs, colleges also have generous merit-based programs. Merit scholarships are usually four-year commitments that colleges make regardless of parent's financial situations. Find out more about college sponsored aid programs by contacting the financial aid office at the college of your choice.

• Athletic Sponsored Student Aid Programs
  
• There are definite rules laid down by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) that must be followed in order to participate in athletic competition at the collegiate level.

• Military Assistance Opportunities
  
• If you have served in the military or are interested in pursuing a career in the military, there is a wide variety of grants, loans and monthly assistance available to you. Whether you are currently serving in the armed forces or considering future service, it will pay you to look into military scholarships.

• Private Scholarship Aid Programs
  
• Sources for private scholarships are unlimited. Local high schools, businesses, and service clubs all offer student aid help. Many scholarships go unclaimed because of lack of interest or qualified applicants.

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