Start college off right with scholarships, grants, and other free money.
While the financial process may seem daunting, planning carefully and researching all of your options can save you thousands! Begin your search for college cash with scholarships and grants, which cost you nothing and do not have to be repaid. Its important to keep in mind, if you are awarded a grant or scholarship, the college will deduct that amount from the financial aid it would otherwise have given you.
When it comes to paying for college, it's always best to: - Maximize FREE money first;
- Utilize CHEAP money;
- Fill the GAP responsibly.
Before applying for a private student loan, make sure you have thoroughly exhausted all sources of free and low-cost financial aid. FAFSA - Free Application for Federal Student Aid; your gateway to federal student loans. You must complete this form to receive federal, state, or college money. Certain scholarships and grants require it, as well. The FAFSA asks basic information regarding the borrower's income, dependency status, and savings to determine financial need. It is important to complete this form as early as possible. Find more information on the FAFSA
here. Scholarships and grants- There are numerous local and national scholarships available to students. Do your homework and apply for as many as possible. Visit any of these scholarship search engines to get started, or talk to your guidance counselor or financial aid office for additional resources. •
Dept. of Labor Sponsored - Free Scholarship Search Wizard •
Fastweb.com •
Scholarships.com •
Federal Student Aid Website The best solution is always to get the most "free money" first. Here are some quick tips for finding free money: - Apply early, apply often - Apply for every scholarship and grant you can find, even if it may not seem like a perfect fit for your major or field of study. If you don't apply, you can't get it. You may not get everything you apply for, but getting your name out there is the only way to get ahead.
- Search local - Many local companies are looking for talented local students to assist. It gives them a good connection with you and the community; and, ultimately, gives you the free money you need. Start by calling reputable local businesses and ask them if they have a scholarship program in place.
- Look for work study programs - These programs can be hard to come by since most of them are need-based, but apply yourself early and get your name in the running for these positions; and you'll have an even greater chance at accessing money that doesn't have to be paid back.
This information is provided courtesy of The Credit Union Student Choice Program. Student Choice was created with one goal in mind - helping you finance a higher education without a higher price tag. Unlike other alternative loan products, Mid Minnesota's Student Choice private loan solution offers zero origination fees, lower interest rates and flexible repayment options. For more tools and resources, or to apply
click here.
