Education costs can add up quickly, from school supplies and educational programs to college tuition, books, and other expenses. Families may be able to find grants, scholarships, financial aid, and other assistance depending on the child's age, education level, family income, location, and program requirements.
There is no single grant that every family qualifies for. Different programs are designed for different students and educational needs, so it helps to look at several sources of assistance.
Who May Qualify?
Educational assistance may be available for:
- Children from low-income households
- Students with financial need
- High school students preparing for college
- College and university students
- Students attending career or trade schools
- Students with disabilities or special educational needs
- Students pursuing specific fields of study
- Children participating in qualifying educational programs
- Families experiencing financial hardship
Eligibility varies significantly between programs.
Check What You May Qualify For
Finding education assistance can be confusing because grants, scholarships, and other programs have different requirements. A short form can help identify potential opportunities that may fit your situation.
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Programs vary based on your child's age, education level, location, and household circumstances.
Types of Education Assistance
Grants
Grants generally do not have to be repaid when the recipient remains eligible and follows the program requirements. Federal student grants are primarily associated with higher education and include programs such as the Federal Pell Grant.
For the 2026–27 award year, the maximum Federal Pell Grant is $7,395 for eligible students. The actual amount depends on the student's circumstances and school.
Scholarships
Scholarships may come from schools, nonprofit organizations, community foundations, businesses, professional organizations, and other private sources. They can be based on financial need, academic achievement, talent, interests, field of study, or other criteria.
Federal Student Aid
For children who are preparing for college, career school, or trade school, completing the FAFSA can help determine eligibility for federal student aid as well as some state and school-based assistance.
State and School-Based Assistance
States and educational institutions may offer their own grants and financial aid programs. Some use information from the FAFSA when determining eligibility. Deadlines and requirements can vary.
Special Education and Educational Support
Families may also find education-related services for children with disabilities or special educational needs. USA.gov provides information about early intervention and special education services.
What Education Expenses May Be Covered?
Depending on the program, assistance may help with expenses such as:
- Tuition
- School fees
- Books and supplies
- Computers or required educational equipment
- Career or trade-school costs
- Certain educational programs
- Transportation or other school-related expenses
Not every grant or scholarship covers every type of expense, so always review the program's rules before applying.
How to Find Education Grants and Scholarships
- Identify the child's education level. Determine whether you are looking for elementary, middle school, high school, college, trade school, or another type of educational assistance.
- Check government programs. Use official government resources to identify benefits and education assistance.
- Look for scholarships. Search schools, community organizations, foundations, businesses, and scholarship databases.
- Complete required financial-aid applications. For college and career-school students, FAFSA is an important starting point for federal financial aid.
- Check deadlines carefully. State, school, and scholarship deadlines can be different.
- Keep documentation organized. You may need income information, school records, application materials, or other documents.