I've been thinking about going back to college to finish my degree. What are some good ways to find scholarships or grants that support continuing education? Would appreciate any recommendations or websites to check out!
Finding scholarships and grants for continuing education can seem like a daunting task, but there are many resources available. Here are some general strategies you might want to consider:
1. FAFSA: First and foremost, ensure you fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually. You might be surprised by the amount of federal aid you're eligible to receive, including grants, work-study opportunities, and low-interest loans. This is a vital step since many scholarships and grants require FAFSA information as part of the application process.
2. Web Searches: Use scholarship search engines to find opportunities tailored to your profile. Websites like Fastweb, Scholarship.com, or Appily maintain comprehensive databases you can filter to find scholarships that match your situation. Be sure to enter pertinent criteria like age, degree level, and field of study.
3. Institutional Aid: Look for scholarships and grants offered directly by the school you're planning to attend. Some colleges and universities offer continuing education scholarships or grants. Check the financial aid or scholarships page of the school's website for this information, or contact the financial aid office.
4. Professional Associations: Professional associations often offer scholarships for members and these can be substantial. If you're already working in a field that has a professional association, it would be prudent to check their website for scholarship opportunities.
5. Local Community Organizations: Don't discount local clubs or community organizations, such as Rotary or Lions Club. They often have scholarship programs for adult learners or residents of a certain area.
6. Employer: If you're currently employed, your employer might offer some type of tuition assistance or reimbursement.
Remember that while exploring your scholarship and grant options, you should be vigilant regarding potential scams. Never pay for access to scholarships or provide sensitive personal information to a source you don't fully trust.
It's a time-consuming process, but patience and persistence can open many doors for financial support. Best of luck on your journey towards continuing your education!
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