Hi everyone! I'm a junior in high school, and I've been thinking a lot about college and how I'm going to pay for it. I know there are many different types of financial aid available, but I'm not sure where to start. Can anyone give me an overview of the different financial aid options and how to apply for them? Thanks so much!
Hi there! It's great that you're thinking about financial aid options early on. There are four main types of financial aid available: grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs.
Grants and scholarships are essentially free money that you don't need to pay back. They can be based on financial need, academic merit, or other criteria. To apply for federal grants, you'll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). For scholarships, you can search online databases, check with your school's counseling office, and inquire with colleges directly.
Loans need to be paid back after you graduate. Federal loans usually have better terms and lower interest rates than private loans. Work-study programs are part-time jobs offered by colleges to help students pay for their education. To apply for federal loans and work-study, you'll also need to submit the FAFSA.Best of luck with your college planning!
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