For many, paying for college can be a challenge. However, there are many types of loans, grants and scholarships available to students on a college and federal level.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid
Students must apply for a FAFSA before applying for any type of federal college financial aid. Many states and colleges also use FAFSA for determining aid.
- 2017-18 FAFSA Deadlines: There are college, state and federal deadlines for FAFSA, and all are at different times spanning two years. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible to have the greatest chance of receiving a loan because they are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
- College deadline: Varies according to college
- Federal deadline: June 30, 2018. Although the federal aid deadline for the 2017-18 year is not until June 2018, students are encouraged to submit applications as early in the school year as possible.
Federal grant and loan programs available
- Federal Pell Grant: Awarded to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional financial need.
- Subsidized loans: The U.S. Department of Education pays the interest on a loan for undergraduate students with financial need while students are in school at least half-time and during a period of deferment for the first six months after leaving college or graduating.
- Unsubsidized loans: The student is responsible for paying the interest; interest accumulates if the student chooses not to pay the interest while in school.
Where to find scholarships and grants
Scholarships are available through service organizations, school districts, businesses and colleges.
- www.studentloans.gov
- www.fafsa.ed.gov
- www.scholarships.com
- www.fastweb.com
- www.cappex.com/scholarships
- www.myscholly.com
- www.ncaaclearinghouse.net
5 FAFSA application tips
Katy-area FAFSA tutor Chis Liebum and HCC financial coach Dominique Brown recommend the following tips for a successful FAFSA application.
