Financial Aid Basics

Understanding how to pay for college starts with learning the basics of financial aid. From grants and scholarships to work-study and loans, this section helps families navigate key terms and processes to make college affordable.
 

Resources:

• FAFSA Guide (with visuals, multilingual)
  Walk through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid with step-by-step visuals and resources in multiple languages to ensure accuracy and maximize aid.
  Explore the FAFSA Guide (Federal Student Aid)

• What is Financial Aid? (EFC, COA, need-based vs merit)
  Learn how financial aid works, including Expected Family Contribution (EFC), Cost of Attendance (COA), and the difference between need-based and merit-based aid.
  Federal Student Aid Types of Aid
   

Scholarship Hub

Scholarships reduce college costs without needing repayment. This hub connects you to the best search tools to find national, local, unique, and identity-based scholarships.
 

Resources:

• Top 20 Scholarship Search Engines (curated)
  Find trusted platforms to match your background, talents, and goals.
  Scholarships.com | Fastweb | College Board Scholarship Search

• Unique + Local Scholarships
  Explore community-based, employer-sponsored, and interest-specific scholarships with fewer applicants.
  Search Local Scholarships (Community Foundations Directory)

• Athletic, Endowed, First-Gen Opportunities
  Access scholarships for athletes, underrepresented students, and those with financial need.
  NCAA Student-Athlete Scholarships
   

State Aid Programs

Many states offer grants and scholarships that can significantly lower your college costs. Use our directory to explore state-specific programs.
 

Resources:

• State Aid Program Directory
  Search for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance in your state.
  State Financial Aid Directory (NASFAA)
   

College Cost Calculators

Estimate your actual college costs using tools that go beyond the sticker price to account for scholarships, grants, and personal expenses.
 

Resources:

• Net Price Calculator Links
  Use official tools to estimate costs after scholarships and grants.
  Find a Net Price Calculator (College Scorecard)

• Budget Worksheets (PDF/Google Sheets)
  Track your expenses with downloadable planners for tuition, housing, and personal costs.
  College Budget Worksheet (PDF)