How to Get a College Grant
If you’ve been wondering how to get a college grant, you’ve come to the right place. College grants are primarily issued by the federal government as well as by state governments. In 2014, many students will be eligible for college grants.
The procedure for you to get a college grant is to apply first by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. You may either print a hard copy or fill out the form online. For the online version you will have to create a Personal Identification Number (PIN).
What Information is Needed When Applying for a College Grant?
When applying for a college grant, you will need to have your tax returns and your parents’ tax returns available. For this reason, you and your parents should file your tax returns as quickly as possible in order to have the information ready for completing the FAFSA form.
You’ll also need your social security number and driver’s license number.
Eligible non-U.S. citizens completing the FAFSA form will need their Alien Registration Number. Foreign students on F1 and F2 student visas or J1 and J2 exchange visitor visas, or G series visa holders are not eligible for federal student aid, but can still complete the FAFSA form as a pre-requisite to certain state or college aid that may be available.
What To Do If Encountering Difficulties Completing the FAFSA?
There is a phone number to call for assistance: 1-800-4-FED-AID. (1-800-433-3243). There is also a website to visit: studentaid.ed.gov/completefafsa if you encounter any problems completing the form.
What Kinds of College Grants and Scholarships Are Available from the Government?
The most basic college grant by the federal government is the Pell Grant. There are also college grants issued by your local state. In addition, students who are eligible for the Pell Grant may also be eligible for the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG).
Certain areas of study are eligible for additional help from the federal government. There are college grants available for students in science and math, known as the American Competitiveness Initiative (ACI) Grants and SMART grants. There are also TEACH Grants for education majors, and the Nursing Scholarship Program for nursing students.
In addition, most states issue college grants every year to help students pay for college in their home state. Immediately after completing the FAFSA form, students will want to apply for college grants from their state of residence, too.
What Happens After Completing the FAFSA Form?
The government will calculate your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) and send you a Student Aid Report (SAR) containing the EFC details. The EFC will determine whether you are eligible to receive federal student aid. Review your SAR to make sure all the information is correct and complete. In addition to applying for college grants from your state, you should also speak with the financial aid offices of the college you will attend, because some colleges distribute additional financial aid to the students who demonstrate financial need.
How Much Money Will I Receive From My College Grant?
The college you will be attending will use your EFC to determine how much money you will receive. The cost of attending college minus your EFC equals the financial need. The maximum you can receive from the Pell Grant is $5,550. If you need further financial aid to pay for college, you should apply for the FSEOG. The maximum for the FSEOG is $4,000. If you still require additional money to pay for college, then apply for the Sallie Mae Unmet Need Scholarship, which has a maximum award of $3,800. If there are unusual circumstances such as large medical bills or a drastic drop in income you should also consult your college’s financial offices. Don’t forget to apply for any college grants and scholarships from your local state and from your college’s financial offices. It is also a good idea to check with the department you are studying. In addition, you may qualify for college scholarships from your parents’ employers, professional organizations, unions, faith-based organizations, and other sources.
How Do I Receive My College Grant Money?
Federal financial aid will be paid to you via the college you’re attending. The college will first use the financial aid to pay against your tuition and fees. It can also be used against room and board if provided by the college. Any remaining money from your college grant is paid to you to be used for other education expenses. Following these steps, you will always know how to get a college grant.
