Student financial grants help students obtain a college education. Student financial grants are available for undergraduate and graduate students. Grants for students can be used for tuition costs, books, living expenses and other related school costs. The government gives student financial grants to students who demonstrate a financial need or on a merit basis. Private organizations, corporations, non-profit organizations, universities and colleges also give students grants for their education. Grants are free and do not have to be repaid. College loans are also available. Unlike grants, loans must be repaid.
Most grants range from $500 to around $5,000. Students must meet certain requirements to receive a student grant and should consult with their school’s financial aid office for eligibility requirements. Grants are available to students, persons who have been displaced and who are now unemployed and need retraining to return to the workforce, veterans, disabled persons, minorities and other groups of people.
Grant Requirements
In order to qualify for a government student grant, students must meet the following requirements:
Private grants also have eligibility requirements. Before students apply for a grant, it is recommended that they thoroughly read and understand the grantor’s requirements. Applications for student grants should be made early because resources are limited with more people attending college now.
Locating Student Financial Grants
Students should start with applying for the federal government’s Pell Grant. The Pell Grant is for students who demonstrate a financial need. Students with a severe financial need may also qualify for the Federal Supplemental Opportunity Grant. Students may also take advantage of other federal grant programs such as the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grants, Academic Competitiveness Grants, the National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grants, Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants. Government grants can be accessed at the government’s website at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/ where students may fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students should pay attention to their school’s FAFSA deadline by inquiring with the financial aid office.
Local state agencies also provide college education grants to students. Students should inquire at their school’s financial aid office or school website or by going to their state website. Colleges and universities also give their own grants to students based upon merit or financial need. There are grants and scholarships available from private organizations and corporations that students should apply for as well. Scholarships are free like grants, and do not need to be repaid. Many students rely on grants, scholarships and student loans to obtain their college education. Students are encouraged to apply to multiple grants and scholarship opportunities to increase their chances of receiving funding for their education.