The cost of tuition can be a huge financial burden. If you want to go to college but fear you’ll be left eating nothing but ramen noodles, you might be able to get help with some of your expenses. Grants are different than loans — you don’t have to pay them back. While eligibility requirements may vary, there are so many opportunities out here. Let’s take a look at a few of the best.
College grants are available for students who need them. Consider federal grants like the Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, or TEACH Grant. The American Association of University Women offers private grants for women in particular need. Many other grants are available for women, minorities, and students with disabilities. We cover them for you right here.
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Pell Grant
The most commonly applied for grant is the Pell Grant, which is available for students who can demonstrate financial need. Depending on your course load and your school’s cost of tuition, you could receive up to $5775 dollars each school year. You must begin by filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, and you must complete the application process by April, before the start of the academic year. From there, you’ll receive a Student Aid Report, which will let you know how much you’re eligible to receive and what you need to do to claim your award.
Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
You’ll have to check with your college to see if it participates in the FSEOG program. If it does, you may be eligible for another $100-$4000 per year. Each school receives limited funding, so apply early if you want a shot. Because this is also a federal grant, you’ll begin by filling out a FAFSA form.
American Association of University Women (AAUW)
The AAUW is one the largest resources for low-income women who want to attend college. Depending on your major, the AAUW may be able to offer you a fellowship award ranging from $5000 to $20,000. Because this is a private grant, you’ll have to follow a private submission process.
Several other grants are available for women seeking a degree. Go to the College Grants Database for more information. The database also offers lists of grants available for minorities and students with disabilities.
TEACH
Do you have what it takes to make a difference as a teacher in low-income communities? If so, the TEACH Grant might just be what you’ve been looking for. The TEACH Grant will give you up to $3752 each year, but in return, you must commit to teaching at a low-income or at-risk school for four years. While TEACH is a federal grant, it will transform into a subsidized loan you must repay if you don’t fulfill your end of the deal within eight years of graduating.
School is stressful enough without the added worry of expenses. If you’re in need, you don’t have to suffer the role of the starving student alone. Check out these and other resources to see what financial help is available to you. You’re worth the investment.
