Tip! The first
thing that you need to know when looking for student grants and
scholarships is exactly what the difference between grants and
scholarships is. Both grants and scholarships are funds that are
given to students based upon academic performance, financial need,
or other reasons, and do not require the student to pay them back
after graduation unlike student loans.
Another program that falls under the
purview of free college grants is the campus-based aid programs.
Here, a student can get a grant from the Federal Supplemental
Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), the Federal Work-Study (FWS)
and the Federal Perkins Loans programs. These can be administered
by the financial aid offices at each school directly. The funds
for these programs are sent to the school and the school uses its
judgment to distribute it among the students who need it.
How do you know if you are eligible
for free college grants? Well, first of all, you have to qualify
for financial aid. Then, you will have to hold a high school
diploma or a GED (General Education Development) certificate. If
you do not have either of these, you will have to pass a test of
an equivalent level which is approved by the US Department of
Education. Of course, you will be working towards your certificate
or degree and will have to show proof that you are enrolled in a
program that is eligible and make sure you maintain good grades
while you are studying. You will have to have a valid Social
Security Number and be either a U.S. citizen or a qualified
non-citizen. You also have to be registered with the Selective
Service.
You will not be eligible for free
college grants if you have been involved in the possession or sale
of drugs. In that case, you could still apply for federal student
aid because maybe you will get other nonfederal or private free
college grants. You can use the Free Application for Federal
Student Aid in order to apply for free college grants,
campus-based student aid programs and all loans. If you'd like
more information, you could visit their web site
(http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/)
which guides you through your application process online. Remember
if you have the inclination, the government has the desire and the
means to help you get that degree!