Students who have been accepted to college often need assistance to pay for tuition. Most apply for financial aid but not everyone is eligible. Graduating high school seniors are considered dependents so their parents’ income is considered during the application process. If both parents work, they may earn too much money for their children to qualify for need-based scholarships but not event to pay for the tuition in its entirety.
There are grants for education that students can consider. Grants do not have to be repaid. This is free money for the students to apply towards their education expenses. Some grants stipulate how the funds are to be used. For example, the grant may go directly to the financial aid office at the school the student attends to pay a portion of tuition. Other grants go directly to the student to be used at their discretion. This can be particularly helpful if the student needs money for gas to get to and from school or needs to buy books for classes.
Education grants are available from several sources including local organizations and foundations. Community foundations typically offer several grant opportunities that help students pay for higher education. Students must meet specific requirements to be determined eligible for an education grant through a foundation. They will need to demonstrate their ability to do well in school. Students will also have to outline their career goals so that donors can select the best applicant to receive an education grant.
When communities face a shortage of workers in a particular field, grants for education in those fields may be available through local organizations. These grants will likely require students to commit to work in the community for a specified number of years after graduation. Many students are willing to do this because in addition to obtaining a quality education, they are basically guaranteed a job upon graduation.
Other resources include workforce development programs. At times, grants for education can be available from these programs, particularly in areas of study for jobs in high demand. Additional eligibility criteria may exist such as receiving public assistance of some kind or having income below a particular threshold.
Education grants can also be obtained directly from the college you attend. The financial aid office should have a comprehensive list of all education grants available through the college. You will be asked to complete a financial aid application for need-based grants.
Not all grants are based on financial need. Education grants can be awarded for academic or leadership achievement. These grants are typically available through local civic groups who may provide full tuition grants for education.