Guides students through the process of locating and applying for financial aid. Prepared by the Congressional Research Service for Members of Congress, updated October 2008.
Getting started |
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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 grants:
FastWeb
Free Scholarship Search
Grants for Individuals
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.