How does the idea of going to college without paying anything sound? I’m sure that if your financial situation is the only thing that prevents you from going to college and pursuing a fulfilling career, this is the best news a student can get.
The good news is that this is actually a possibility with the help of college grants.
In essence, the grants for college are non-reimbursable money that students can apply for from a variety of sources such as federal and state governments, educational institutions, private organizations and professional associations.
With regards to whom that has access to free college funding; it is worth mentioning that they are awarded based on the record of achievements, financial needs, special interest, association or religious affiliation.
A quick look at the Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants
The FSEOG is a type of grants that students designed to help students from families with no financial possibilities to receive a college education. In fact, according to the program’s description, only the undergraduate students with great financial needs are eligible for the program.
However, the amount awarded per year usually varies between $100 and $4000, depending on the date application, level of need, the school’s funding level and the financial aid policies of the school. Students interested in this program should fill in a free application.
Exceptional students get to go for college for free!
The students that excel at certain courses from the curricula and that have received academic honors should learn a bit more about the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship Program. Established in 1985, this program has awarded $1500 scholarship to students that proved their qualities and the greatest news is that the program can support over 27.000 graduates per year.
The eligibility process implies meeting the standard federal requirements. However, the high school graduates interested in attaining college funding will need to fulfill state requirements as well. Learn more about the each state’s requirements here.
It is important to note that this is not the sole grant eminent students can apply for. For instance, if a student is good at computer sciences, physics, engineering or mathematics and wants to pursue a career in any of the fields, then they should inquire on the National Science Scholar Program here.
In general, the most reliable information on the available funding programs or scholarships in certain fields can be obtained from the high school counselor’s office.
A word of advice when applying for a scholarship
Scammers and malevolent individuals will always be present wherever financial gains are possible and the grants for college are no exception. According to the Federal Trade Commission, each year families are estimated to lose millions of dollars due to frauds. As with almost everything nowadays, it is better to be cautious and steer clear of offers that should appear too good to be true.
The best place to learn about grant and scholarship fraud is here. Alternatively, in case students need further information on the matter, then they can contact the FTC at 1-877-382-4357.