School-based aid

In addition to the FAFSA, schools may require other financial aid applications for their school-based grant and/or scholarship programs, such as the Need Access© application or other need analysis forms. Contact the schools you’re considering to make sure you have all of the required materials and know the deadlines.

Scholarships (AKA “free money”)

Yes, this will take up your time. Yes, you’ll have to fill out more forms. No, this isn’t a step you should skip. Scholarships and grants are basically free money.

In addition to schools, a number of private groups and civic organizations award scholarships and grants to students who have “demonstrated financial need” and/or who meet other eligibility criteria.

Ask the financial aid office if they have compiled a list of programs that have funded current and former students. You also can search websites like FastWeb.com and Scholarships.com.

Just beware of organizations that charge a fee to provide scholarship information.