How to Get Financial Aid for College

Over the last couple of decades, getting into higher education has become very expensive. The ever-increasing tuition fee has put even brilliant students under tremendous pressure to find a way to get financial aid to get into college. 

There are several programs run by government and educational institutions to provide financial assistance to aspiring students. Federally subsidized loans, grants and scholarships are some of the ways to obtain financial aid. 

Though there are several ways to get monetary support, making the most out of it sometimes becomes a cumbersome process. Getting financial aid depends on several factors like academic and extracurricular achievements, yearly income of household, and family size.

To make the process of applying for financial aid simple, we have listed a few steps so that you could be able to apply for it with clear mind.

Applying for FASA

FASA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a program run by the government of USA, which provides funds for students to study. The US education department spends more than $120 billion through several programs for more than 13 million college students. FASA is one of the programs that gets major portion of the funds. 

Students with household income of $250,000 and below can apply for FASA. You may have to provide your income details while filling the FASA form. Once you attach all details, you need to send the farm to the schools you are interested in.

Applying for State Aid

FASA is a federally funded program and has a lot of competition. In order to expand the chances of getting financial aid, you need to look for other aid programs. Most of the states in USA grant financial aid for students through different programs. 

If you are living in a state for more than five years, you may get extra benefits through state financial aid. Each state has its own set of rules. Even if you have failed in FASA you can still apply for state aid. Approaching state grant agency would clear most of the doubts.

Applying for College Aid

You can also seek financial aid from schools and colleges like from Sacred Heart University – Sacred Heart Admissions & Aid. Most of the colleges have programs that provide funds for students to further their studies. These funds come from donations and gifts from alumni. If you have already chosen a college, make sure that you visit their website or financial aid office to know the procedure of application. 

You can also visit CSS/Financial aid profile website to know more about colleges, which provide funds through grants, loans and scholarships. Do not forget to check deadline when you choose to apply for college aid.

Private Financial Aid

Many private organizations provide funds for students to study or acquire study materials. Though these funds are less compared to government aids, they come in handy to pay for books, study materials and other living expenses. 

The support from private parties consists of internships, scholarships and grants. You have to make your own research to find organizations that provide financial aid and apply before the deadline.