How To Secure Financial Aid and Scholarships For Your College Education
Thursday, November 21, 2013
The state of the economy has hit the pockets of many Americans. Due to the current economic climate and the cost of a college education increasing rapidly, it is more imperative than ever for students attending college to find multiple resources to fund their college educations. The combination of loss of employment, reduction of household income, and the stress of trying to keep up with bills and basic family needs has put a strain on America’s households.
Whether you are a recent high school graduate or a “non-traditional” older student returning to school to start or complete a degree or gear up for a new career, a common question is, “How do I pay for my education?” and, “Where do I go for financial resources?” Dwindling family resources should not prevent a person from obtaining a higher education as a means to improve current circumstances. There are a number of financial aid opportunities available to assist you in paying for college tuition. These may include your own financial contributions, federal funds, or private and public scholarships. Here are just a few of the options available to students:
- Federal Financial Aid is available to assist people who are eligible to receive grants, loans, and scholarships (Pell grant; State scholarship; and Direct Loans.) Eligibility is based primarily on income but also on household and enrollment. The application is free to apply and accessible online.
- FAFSA Deadlines: Each State has their own deadline for completing the FAFSA, please check your State’s deadline here.
- A four digit PIN number is required to electronically sign the application. Apply for a Student Aid 4 digit PIN number prior to completing your FAFSA.
- A student is only eligible to receive federal financial aid if he/she has been formally accepted into a university/college and in a degree program (matriculation status)
- Loans can be managed via the Direct Loan website or through the National Student Loan Data System (NSDL)
- Internal Scholarships/Grants: Universities and colleges have various scholarships and grants available through their financial aid office. Meet with a Financial Aid Counselor.
- External Scholarships: Available at Banks, civic organizations, various corporations, etc.) Scholarships may be based on academic merit or another criteria for eligibility. Your college will have a list of available scholarships and grants.
- Veteran Education Benefits: Available through your local Veterans Administration or your School’s Office of Veteran Students.
- Waivers: Senior citizen waiver (age 60+), Dept. of Elderly Affairs; Unemployment Waivers; and work related reimbursement)
- Financial Aid Counselors/Advisors are available at the university or college of your choice. Arrange an initial meeting with them to determine types of Financial Aid you are eligible to receive. You should educate yourself about options that best fit your needs and then step into action to acquire funds to support education. In the long run, a college education in your field of choice is well worth the effort.
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The University of Rhode Island Feinstein Providence Campus is located at 80 Washington St. Providence, RI 02903, and has specific scholarships available for Non-traditional students returning to school. Visit www.uri.edu/prov or call today to meet with an advisor at (401) 277-5162.
This article was written by Gayla Gazerro, Financial Aid Advisor at the URI Feinstein College of Continuing Education in downtown Providence. This column is part of an ongoing sponsored content series with The University of Rhode Island Feinstein Providence Campus.
Related Slideshow: College Board Reports - New England States by the Data
Reports released by the College Board, "Trends in College Pricing 2013," and "Trends in Student Aid", included a number of national data points regarding college affordability. Here, see how the New Engand states stacked up agains each other.
