The costs of attending college today continue to skyrocket. Many students are finding it nearly impossible to finance their own education. With costs exceeding $15,000 a year, getting a part-time job often isn't the answer. Balancing education with the demands of a full-time job is becoming increasing impossible.
Individuals who want to pursue higher education and need monetary help to attend college have a couple of options. Self-help federal aid allows you to get loans and work-study programs. The second option, gifts don't require repayment. Besides the US Federal government, other organizations offer aid as well. This aid comes as a college education grant. The great thing about a college education grant, like most of grants and unlike student loans, is that you don't have to repay the money.
College education grants are based on need and are highly competitive. These grants won't necessarily cover all costs of education, but provide the bridge that can make educational pursuits possible. These grants are donated by federal or state governments, nonprofit organizations, academic institutions, research institutions, funding institutions, corporations, and private individuals.The key is to start your research early when looking for college education grant opportunities. Starting during your junior year of high school is not too early. Anyone who wishes to pursuit a post-secondary education should complete a Free Application for Student Aid form and forward it to the department of education as early as possible. This should be submitted to the state assistance agency in the state where you hope to attend college or university. You may find eligibility for more than one grant or scholarship. Many grants are donated on a first-come first-served basis, so it's best to get applications in early. The Federal Pell Grant and the Federal Educational Supplemental Opportunity grant are two of the most popular and well-known need-based grants. The Federal Pell Grant provides need-based grants to low-income undergraduate and certain post-baccalaureate students. Students may use their grants at any one of about 5,400 participating postsecondary institutions.