Grants for College Freshmen

The cost of college tuition seems to rise each year. For students looking to enter school as freshman, there are grants available. Unlike loans, grants are an option of money that does not have to be paid back.

Federal

Among the federal grants, the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity, Academic Competitiveness and Pell Grants are available for college freshmen.

State

Most states offer grants to college freshmen. The financial aid office of the college or university in which you are applying can tell you if you qualify for a state grant.

Other Options

There are grants available for people of all backgrounds. The "Directory of College Grants" lists grants for veterans and their children, single mothers, minorities and those studying specific subjects among the grant opportunities.

Considerations

Grants are often given with stipulations of maintaining a grade point average (GPA), agreeing to study a certain major or committing to a specific profession after college. Grants are usually given annually and are not guaranteed to continue every year.

Application

To apply for federal and state grants, fill out the "Free Application for Federal Student Aid." The FAFSA is used by most schools in the country for deciding need of federal and state grants.

References

• Scholarship Search (US Dept of Education)
• Federal Student Aid Grant Programs Fact Sheet
• What is the real difference between Scholarship and Grant?

Resources

• • FAFSA on the Web (US Dept of Education)
• Directory of College Grants