- Federal grants for low-income students, such as the well-known Pell Grant, are available to all college students, regardless of age. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) becomes available on January 1 of every year. Complete it as soon as you receive your W2 forms from your employers, as these grants are awarded on a first come, first served basis. Federal grants are for students attending college at least half time and are not available for online courses.
- Certain unions, clubs, businesses and nonprofit organizations provide grants to cover college education. Inquire at your school's financial aid office regarding these grants. Private grants are usually for local students, so local channels and the public library are good places to look. You may also qualify for a number of private grants if you belong to a church or minority group. Inquire about a tuition reimbursement program through your employer.
- Many institutions give need-based grants to low-income students. Check with your school to see if you qualify for one of these grant programs. Apply even if you receive grant money elsewhere, since many of the institutional grants help cover the difference between grant money and college costs. Also, certain institutions may award you a grant if you work for them for a certain period of time.
- Numerous grants are available if you actively pursue them, but just as many scams exist that promise information about grants in exchange for your hard-earned money. Many of these scams rob you of your credit information and use it to charge small, unauthorized amounts, and some may even use the information for identity theft. Remember that all information about college grants is available free of charge. Never pay to buy this information.
Federal Grants
Private Grants
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