College isn’t cheap. My College Guide has been saying that for years – 20 years to be exact! But don’t let a tiny matter like cost take your college bound hopeful off the college track! You should know that, when it comes to paying for college: you’ve got options.
Federal Loans – The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, could send free college aid your family’s way! No matter what your financial situation may be, you and your teen should fill out the form, online or mail-in. Circumstances change – and colleges often require a completed FAFSA in order to consider your son or daughter for college-specific loans and scholarships!
Work — Study Programs — Sometimes nicknamed “self help aid” work-study programs are often provided by the college your teen actually wants to attend. There is a Federal Work-Study Program and state programs as well. It’s one way that your teen can help pay their way through college – and gain a little life experience in the process.
Grants and Scholarships — Simply applying to college will make your child eligible for some scholarships sponsored through the school. Of course, many scholarships are merit based. But, even if your college bound teen isn’t at the top of their class and the last sport your child played was tennis on the Wii – with the right scholarship or grant, lack of athletic or academic achievement may not matter. There are scholarships and grants out there to fit every student: no kidding. Your son or daughter can find free money to match their ethnicity, intended college major, religion, SAT scores, hobbies, and then some. Many colleges have their own specific scholarships and/or grants that cover a range of abilities and majors. To get started, have your teen sit down with their high school guidance counselor or surf the web for free money that fits!
Student Loans – There are various loan options: state, federal, and even loans from your child’s choice college. Loans do need to be paid back and there will be interest tacked on but repayments are very often deferred — at least until your child completes their college career. It’s good to know that when all else fails – there is still an option!
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