School Grants - How to Apply

Since college itself is very expensive, many students are forced to turn to student loans, financial aid and school grants to help pay for their education. Loans are available from a variety of sources with the most common one being the federal government.

The government offers both loans and school grants for eligible college students. The first step towards applying for these federal programs is to complete the Free Application For Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This application determines whether or not a student's family's income qualifies them for federal aid. If a student does qualify for help, they will receive an award letter stating what options they have.

The federal government offers two main student loans for those who qualify: The Stafford Loan and the Perkins Loan. In order to qualify for the Stafford Loan, students will first need to complete the FAFSA. If they are notified that they qualify, they must be enrolled as at a least part-time in their school to apply for the loan. If their application is approved, students can borrow up to $46,000 with the Stafford loans, with up to $23,000 of that subsidized by the government.

 

 

The other federal student loan program, the Perkins Loan, is designed for students with tremendous financial need. If a student is notified after filing the FAFSA that they qualify for the Perkins Loan, they will work with the student's school to attain the loan. The school will actually be the student's lender as it will be using funds that the government sent to them for this purpose.

If a student does not qualify for these school grants, they can seek private student loans through any lender they wish. Their school may also offer a tuition payment plan that allows them to pay their tuition fees over time as they attend school. More information about student loan options and school grants can be found by contacting a school's financial aid office. The financial aid department at any college or university will help determine if a student qualifies for any student loans they may have overlooked during their search.

Student loans and school grants were created to help assist those who need financial assistance. It's not a bad thing to be in need of financial aid. Thousands of students seek help to pay their education and are rewarded by the government with a variety of funding that in turn, help them start a career.