This Information Web page, prepared by the Congressional Research Service for Members of Congress, guides students through the process of locating and applying for financial aid; and repaying student loans. [March 2006]
The basics: getting started |
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Start gathering information early.
Free
information is readily available from:
High school counselors
College and career school financial aid offices (where you plan to attend)
Local and college libraries
US. Department
of Education Web page
Other Internet sites (search terms student financial aid OR assistance)
Ask questions: counselors may know if you have exceptional
circumstances that affect your eligibility.
Be organized: use calendars to keep on track.
Keep
copies of all forms and correspondence: you must reapply
for aid each year.
Parents of students: save money long before your child attends
college.
FinAid: for Parents
College Savings Plan Network (state "Section 529" plans)
Tax incentives for higher education expenses
Good
overviews:
Cash for College
FinAid: The Smart Student Guide
to Financial Aid
Financial Aid: You Can Afford It
Looking
for Student Aid
Mapping Your Future
Paying for College
Beware of scholarship scams -- don't pay for free information!
Department of Education
Federal Trade Commission
Student aid and where it comes from |
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Basic assistance categories:
Colleges and universities provide some 20% of
aid, most need-based. Check university Web sites and the institution's financial aid office when
you apply for admission.
Private foundations, corporations, and organizations offer
scholarships or grant.:
FastWeb
Free Scholarship Search
Grants for Individuals
SRN Express
Scholarship Search
Targeted aid for special groups |
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Interested in public service?
Federal assistance programs seek to encourage people to work in geographic areas or professions where there's a particular need (such as doctors in underserved areas); encourage underrepresented groups to enter a particular profession; and provide aid in exchange for services provided (such as military service).
Repaying your loans |
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After college, the federal government has ways to help you repay your loans.