Paying for school can involve much more than tuition. Students and families may also need help with books, supplies, transportation, housing, food, technology, fees, and other education-related costs.
Depending on your circumstances, grants, scholarships, school-based aid, state programs, and other financial assistance may help reduce these expenses. For college, career school, and trade school students, completing the FAFSA is an important first step because it can determine eligibility for federal, state, and school financial aid.
Who May Qualify
Eligibility depends on the program. You may find assistance based on:
- Household income and financial need
- Enrollment status
- Type of school or program
- State of residence
- Academic program or field of study
- Age or student status
- Military or veteran status
- Disability status
- Special family or personal circumstances
For federal student aid, financial need and other eligibility requirements are considered through the FAFSA process.
Check What You May Qualify For
OpenGrants Network can help you explore assistance opportunities that may fit your situation.
- ✓ Free eligibility check
- ✓ Free guidance if needed
Programs vary based on eligibility, location, school, income, and other requirements.
Types of Assistance to Look For
Federal Grants
The Federal Pell Grant is one of the major federal grants for eligible undergraduate students. For the 2026–27 award year, the maximum Pell Grant award is $7,395. Pell Grant funds can be used toward eligible school-related costs. Other federal student aid programs may also be available depending on eligibility.
State Grants
Many states offer their own education grants and financial aid programs. FAFSA information may be used by states when determining eligibility, although individual state requirements and deadlines vary.
College and School Grants
Colleges, universities, career schools, and trade schools may provide their own grants or scholarships. Awards can be based on financial need, academic achievement, a particular program of study, or other criteria.
Scholarships
Scholarships can come from schools, nonprofit organizations, foundations, employers, and other private organizations. Some are based on financial need, while others consider academic achievement, talent, community involvement, or a specific field of study.
Work-Study
Federal Work-Study allows eligible students to earn money through part-time employment. It can help with day-to-day expenses such as food, transportation, and school supplies. Work-study funding and jobs are not guaranteed.
How to Find Help With School Expenses
- Complete the FAFSA if you are attending an eligible college, career school, or trade school.
- Review your financial aid offer from the school.
- Ask the financial aid office about additional grants and scholarships.
- Search for state and local education assistance.
- Look for scholarships related to your education, background, interests, or field of study.
- Compare your total school costs rather than looking only at tuition, and ask about payment plans or emergency assistance if there is still a gap.
The FAFSA is free, and states and colleges may use its information when awarding their own financial aid.