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Types of Financial Aid

Going to college or getting a career certificate costs money, but your student does not have to pay for it all by themself! There are many types of financial aid that can help cover the cost of tuition, books, housing, and more.

Financial aid can come from the federal government, your state, your community, the school your student goes to, or private companies and nonprofits.

Federal Financial Aid

The federal government gives out the most student aid through grants, loans, and work-study jobs. You can apply by filling out the FAFSA® form.


Apply here: studentaid.gov
 

Types of Federal Aid:
 

  • Pell Grant: Free money based on family income (does not need to be repaid)

  • Federal Work-Study: A part-time job that helps you earn money while in school

  • Direct Loans: Borrowed money you must repay after graduation
     

Learn more: Types of Aid - studentaid.gov
 

State Financial Aid (From Your State Government)

Each state has its own grants, scholarships, and programs to help students pay for school especially if you go to college in-state.
 

State Aid May Include:
 

  • Scholarships

  • Grants for low-income families

  • Aid for career training or community college

  • Help for future teachers, nurses, and more
     

Most states use your FAFSA, but some have extra applications.

Explore  State by State Financial Aid Programs
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Local Financial Aid (From Your Community)

Your city, county, high school, or local organizations may offer scholarships just for students who live nearby.
 

Local Aid May Come From:
 

  • School districts or local colleges

  • Elected Officials (such as local, state or federal legislative representatives)

  • Community foundations

  • Rotary clubs, churches, and nonprofits

  • Employers or unions
     

Ask your school counselor, college access professionals or check local bulletin boards and websites.
 

Institutional Aid (From the College or Career School Itself)

Many colleges give out their own scholarships and grants to help students attend their school.
 

Types of Institutional Aid:
 

  • Merit scholarships for grades, talents, or test scores

  • Need-based aid for students with financial need

  • Talent awards for sports, music, or art

  • Work-study programs run by the school


​Every school is different—check their financial aid office or website for details.


Use College Navigator to search schools and compare aid.
 

Private Scholarships (From Businesses and Organizations)

Private scholarships come from companies, nonprofits, clubs, and foundations. These are usually competitive, but can be a great way to lower college costs.
 

Where to Find Private Scholarships:
 

  • Our scholarship page!

  • Online databases

  • National organizations (like Coca-Cola, Gates Foundation)

  • Local businesses or community groups

  • Religious organizations or heritage groups
     

Helpful Tools and Resources:
 

Tips for Students & Families

  • Fill out the FAFSA® every year. It’s the key to most financial aid

  • Apply early. Some aid runs out quickly

  • Look everywhere.  Aid can come from many places

  • Ask questions.  Talk to counselors, advisors, and financial aid offices. If you need Help you can contact a:
     

    • School counselor

    • Career or college access Professional

    • Higher education Professional

    • College financial aid office

    • Community centers or nonprofits that help with college planning
       

Financial aid can make college or career school affordable. The more you learn, the more support you can get! 

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