Pay for College

Financial aid is the money you receive from a variety of sources to cover the cost of your education. The good news is that, regardless of income, most people are eligible for some form of financial aid. Now is also the time to start learning about scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. There is no need to pay for scholarship and financial aid searches.

In general, financial aid is split up into two categories based on the reason the money is awarded:

• Achievement-based aid is awarded to students who have a special characteristic, skill, talent, or ability. Typically achievement-based aid is in the form of scholarships.
• Need-based aid is provided to students who demonstrate financial need. Most financial aid, particularly public-funded aid, is awarded on the basis of financial need determined through the application process and in accordance with a prescribed federal formula.