College tuition has become more expensive and harder to afford for students looking to pursue a college degree. Students looking for financial aid may qualify for educational grants that can be obtained through the federal government, state government, colleges and private foundations. These grants do not need to be repaid and are given based on financial need, scholarly merit, and other requirements.
Students must fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to find out if they qualify for any federal tuition grants. Students that qualify will be notified if they will receive federal funding, and must reapply on a yearly basis to receive further funding. There are four federal education grant programs available to students based on their financial need and ability to pay for college.
- The Pell Grant: This is the most commonly awarded grant based on financial need, funded by the federal government. Over one third of students applying for federal aid receive this grant award.
- TEACH Grant: Students applying for this educational grant must promise to teach for four years at an elementary/secondary school following their college graduation. Another option is working for an educational service agency that serve students from low-income families.
- FSEOG: The Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant provides the Pell Grant to students in need of the most financial aid through participating colleges.
- Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant: Students may qualify for this grant if they have a parent or guardian who died as a result of military service. Any student who did not receive a Pell Grant may receive this grant if their parent or guardian died after September 11, 2001, or in Iraq or Afghanistan.
Educational grants are available through each individual state, often based on financial need, merit and athletic accomplishments. Students who receive the Pell Grant from the federal government may also apply for state tuition grants to help cover additional costs.
Educational grants may be available through colleges and public or private foundations based on their individual criteria. educational grant for women Educational grant for women are most readily available to those who are especially looking to concentrate in math, science, engineering, technology, law, business and medicine. Another large opportunity for financial aid is for students who are a minority. Since there is a smaller group of minorities applying for educational grants, students will have less competition, but they will still need to show financial need to qualify.